Urgent call for type O- and type B- blood

DULUTH, Minn. – Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) has issued an urgent call for blood donors.

They need specifically type O- and type B- blood.

The region’s supply of O- and B- blood is currently at a 2-day level, far below what is needed to meet hospital demands.

Seasonal declines in blood donations are common, as school breaks, holiday travel, and busy summer schedules often lead to fewer appointments.

The 2025 summer drop is steeper than anticipated.

Type O- negative is especially vital because it is the universal blood type used in emergencies when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type.

MBC Vice President Kathy Geist said, “This time of year is usually when we look to build our inventory to prepare for increased need over the summer, but we are already facing a shortage of critical blood types before summer has even begun. We’re calling on all blood donors, but especially those with type O- and B- blood, to make an appointment as soon as possible.”

The summer months are often referred to as “trauma season” due to a spike in traumas at local hospitals.

Memorial Blood Centers serves all of Minnesota, plus Western Wisconsin and Eastern North Dakota.

To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.