American Red Cross declares emergency blood shortage as number of donors hits 20-year low

The United States is dealing with a blood shortage crisis due to severe winter weather and seasonal illnesses causing people to cancel their blood donations. The American Red Cross has reported that the number of people volunteering to donate blood is at its lowest level in 20 years, leading to a 40% decrease in donations. This shortage is affecting hospitals and patients in need, with at least 17 community blood centers having critically low supply. The Red Cross is urging healthcare professionals and the public to donate blood, as platelets and red blood cells are in high demand.