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Madrid issues urgent call for blood donations after national blackout
The recent energy crisis that brought Madrid to a standstill has led to a worrying drop in blood supplies.
The Community of Madrid has warned about the impact of the national blackout on its healthcare system: the drop in blood donations directly threatens patients who depend on transfusions, surgery or hospital treatment. According to the authorities, these patients cannot wait, nor can they replace their treatment with any alternative. Blood is neither manufactured nor stored indefinitely: every component has an expiry date. Taking advantage of the publication of a new report, all people in Madrid are being called on to donate blood as soon as possible. The warning is especially important during the 2 May holiday weekend, when the number of donations traditionally falls even further. The blood groups with the greatest need at the moment are O-, A- and B-, which require urgent donations. It is also warned that the O+ group could reach critical levels in just two days. By contrast, levels of A+, AB+, B+ and AB- are currently optimal.
Where to donate blood in Madrid
Donations can be made at the Community of Madrid Blood Transfusion Centre, open every day from 8:30 to 21:30, except Sundays and public holidays, when it is open until 14:00. The centre is next to Valdebernardo metro station (line 9) and can be reached by buses 71, 130, 8 and E4. It is also possible to donate at mobile units located in central areas such as Gran Vía (Montera corner) and Fuencarral Street. These points offer convenience and access for those wishing to help without having to travel far. The Community of Madrid insists: donating blood saves lives, and at times like this, it can make the difference between life and death.