The
Cayman Islands Blood Bank would like to advise the public that it
will remain open for donations and is encouraging members of the
public who are eligible to continue to donate blood.

While
some healthcare services have been cancelled or reduced to minimise
potential transmission of COVID-19 the blood bank remains fully
operational at the Cayman Islands Hospital.

“Blood
donation is still necessary to ensure we have adequate supply on
island for any medical emergencies requiring lifesaving blood
transfusion. We are appealing to eligible donors of all blood types
to make donations, in particular those who are O Negative. We also
want to ensure the public that it is safe to donate blood as COVID-19
is not a blood borne illness,” said Blood Bank Manager, Judith
Clarke.“ The Blood Bank, which operates out of the Health Services
Authority’s JCI Accredited lab, follows the highest standards to
ensure donors can give blood in a safe and controlled environment.”

“We
often conduct blood drives on-site at businesses within the
community, however since many businesses are operating remotely, the
Blood Bank is missing an opportunity to host these blood drives. Some
states in the US are also starting to see shortages of blood
supplies, so for these reasons we encourage all eligible donors to
continue donating during this time.”

To
find out if you are eligible to donate, please visit the website
www.bloodbank.ky
or call 244-2674.

One
blood donation can help save up to three lives. Men can donate every
three months and women every four months.

The
Cayman Islands Hospital has heightened measures for persons entering
the facility, therefore blood donors should use the entrance to the
left of accident and emergency where a member of security will
provide escort to the blood bank. Parking is available in the
designated Blood Donor spots outside A&E or in the Seventh Day
Adventist Church parking lot.

Those
who are eligible to donate blood can book an appointment on
www.bloodbank.ky
or call 244-2674. Opening hours are Monday - Friday 7am - 6:30pm and
Saturday 9am – 5pm.