Due to the Blood Bank reserves being reduced and blood demand expected to be high in December due to an increase in accidents and other health-related emergencies during the holiday season, health workers have opened up their schedules to receive more donors.

The blood bank, located in Zapote Canton in San José, will maintain a special schedule for receiving donations of all types of blood. 

They'll be open from:

• Monday to Thursday from 6 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.
• Fridays from 6 a.m. to 2:20 p.m.
• Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

All blood types are needed and required: A+, A-, B+, B-, AB+, AB-, O+ y O-. The O+ blood type is the one that is most necessary because the majority of the population carries one of those blood types.

People who wish to donate must first make an appointment by calling 2280-9952 or by WhatsApp via texting 8992-2151.

They must be in good health, from 18 to 65 years old, must weigh at least 52 pounds, carry Costa Rican ID or residency ID and eat a light breakfast.

Approximately 450 milliliters of this vital liquid will be extracted from each donor, representing about 10% of the volume of blood that each human being possesses. This volume of extracted blood is recovered during the day and therefore the consumption of enough liquids is recommended after each donation.

A person can donate every three months, that is four times a year.

The blood collected has been applied to people with health issues such as liver diseases, and leukemia among others. The red blood cells are used in transfusions in emergencies, also in surgeries for patients with anemia or patients with blood production problems.

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What has been your experience donating blood in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com