Hospital authorities have issued an urgent appeal to the public to give blood because stocks have fallen.

Bermuda Hospitals Board consultant haematologist Eyitayo Fakunle said: “Stocks of O positive blood in particular are currently lower than we want, and we are making an urgent plea to the community for people to become blood donors.

“Safe blood is the most important gift that anyone can give to another person.

“All of us in the blood donor centre thank our community for their kind assistance in ensuring we can continue to save lives.”

A spokesperson for the BHB added: “Stocks are low at the moment due to an increased need for transfusions due to the health of patients. It is not related to trauma incidents. The need for regular donors is growing and we are grateful to those who have answered the call and donated. We encourage everyone to consider donating if they can.”

People who do not know their blood type can contact the blood donor centre at 236 5067, via WhatsApp at 533 9553, or e-mail them at blood.donor@bhb.bm.

The centre at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital is open from Monday to Thursday from 8.30am to 2.30pm and from 8.30am to 1pm on Friday. Appointments to the centre are preferred, but walk-ins are also accepted.

More information about blood donation is available at www.bermudahospitals.bm/be-a-donor