The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The blood inventories are now reaching a critically low level. The Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service (BTS) appealed to the general public today (January 23) to donate blood immediately to replenish the blood supply as soon as possible.

     Hong Kong has entered the winter influenza season and there has been an increase in demand for blood transfusions since the commencement of the winter surge in public hospitals. The BTS sincerely urges people from all walks of life to join in before the Chinese New Year holidays. As a token of thanks, all those providing successful blood donations today and tomorrow (January 24) will receive a Red Packet Pouch Set. A CNY Goodies Bag will be given to every donor who gives blood during January 26 to 28 while stocks last.

     Most BTS donor centres are open during the Chinese New Year holidays, except on January 25. For details, please visit www.ha.org.hk/rcbts, or check the mobile app "HK Blood" for more details.

     Members of the public are urged to download "HK Blood" to locate the nearest donor centres across the city and make appointments for donation:
iOS: itunes.apple.com/hk/app/hk-blood/id1387423207?mt=8;
Android: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hk.org.ha.btsmapps&rdid=hk.org.ha.btsmapps.

Ends/Thursday, January 23, 2020
Issued at HKT 15:55

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