Blood banks across Dhaka are experiencing a sharp rise in demand for blood and platelet transfusions amid the ongoing dengue outbreak, with some institutions reporting demand levels three to four times higher than normal. The increasing number of dengue patients requiring blood components has placed additional pressure on hospitals and blood donation centres.
At the same time, blood collection is facing challenges as many regular voluntary donors are temporarily unable to donate after contracting dengue, influenza and other viral fevers. This has created a gap between rising demand and the availability of eligible donors.
According to the Quantum Voluntary Blood Donation Program, 3,201 bags of blood and blood components were supplied to dengue patients between August and 20 October. Other blood banks have also reported a significant increase in platelet requests, particularly for single-donor platelets.
Health experts have urged people to maintain regular voluntary blood donation throughout the year to help meet emergency needs. Doctors have also cautioned against unnecessary platelet transfusions, stressing that dengue patients should receive them only when medically required, based on their overall condition and signs of bleeding.
Reference:
https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/health/dengue-outbreak-drives-demand-blood-and-platelets-1581191
