Flu, severe weather lead to national blood shortage

By: Elijah de Castro

Outlets: Keene Sentinel

Published: January 24, 2026

Words: 621

Last Updated: 3 days, 19 hours ago

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The American Red Cross is calling for blood donations locally and beyond amid a national shortage.

Due to a combination of severe weather and a severe flu season, the Red Cross’ blood supply has fallen 35 percent over the past month, the regional chapter of the relief agency announced in a Jan. 20 news release. This represents 40,000 units of blood, according to regional Red Cross spokesperson …

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