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US Surgeon General: Blood donations are needed right now

'Social distancing doesn't have to mean social disengagement,' U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams said Thursday.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams called on Americans Thursday to consider donating blood as the world grapples with the coronavirus pandemic. 

Dr. Adams said he knows many are at home practicing social distancing guidelines, but going out to donate blood is still an option and blood centers are in need.  

He further explained that the blood centers are taking extra precautions because of coronavirus including spacing beds six feet apart, encouraging donors to make appointments ahead of time, and disinfecting surfaces more than normal. 

"Social distancing doesn't have to mean social disengagement," Adams said. 

A viral tweet falsely claimed recently that if you go to donate blood that you'll get tested for coronavirus. That's not true and you should only donate blood if you're healthy and feeling well. 

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"So give blood today. You'll feel good about it, and you'll be helping your country and community during this crisis and you might even save a life," Adams said.

If interested, the following organizations can assist in finding a local blood collection site and schedule an appointment:

AABB: www.aabb.orgExternal Link Disclaimer
America’s Blood Centers: www.americasblood.orgExternal Link Disclaimer
American Red Cross: www.redcrossblood.org External Link Disclaimer
Armed Services Blood Program: www.militaryblood.dod.mil External Link Disclaimer
Blood Centers of America: www.bca.coop 

Credit: AP
Surgeon General Jerome Adams at the White House, Thursday, March 19, 2020 (AP)

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