By Umamah Bakharia

The devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal have far-reaching consequences, including saving the lives of those affected.

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has now implored South Africans to donate blood amid critical low blood stocks.

Almost 450 people have died in the floods and accompanied mudslides and over 60 are still missing.

Speaking to Radio Islam, SANBS spokesperson, Khensani Mahlangu says they need people to donate more.

“The situation is increasingly getting worse,” warns Mahlangu.

As of 19 April, she says the SANBS was sitting at 2.7 days worth of bloodstock, which is now posing as a threat to people who require blood transfusions.

The SANBS uses most of its bloodstock on individuals who suffer from chronic illnesses that require blood transfusions and for women after giving birth.

Accidents don’t take up a bulk of the SANBS bloodstock, however, Mahlangu says that there is a consistent need for blood throughout the year.

The criteria to donate blood include: being between the age of 16 and 75, having a minimum weight of 50kg, having a healthy lifestyle and does not suffer from chronic illnesses or taking chronic medication.

“A healthy donor is the best donor,” says Mahlangu.