For type O blood donors (either positive or negative), the Red Cross is continuously checking the donated blood for cytomegalovirus. It is a virus that is harmful to newborn babies and preemie babies, but not so much to adults. When the Red Cross checks all O blood type donors they are looking for a CMV Negative result, which is found in less then 20% of all O donors. The Red Cross notifies the rare individuals who are CMV Negative.
The Red Cross found that CMV Negative is the best donation for newborns to get the best benefit. It is the only type of donation that is sent to NICU units as a priority for the babies to get first, if possible, before sending it some place else.
People of all blood types are still needed and encouraged to donate. Pediatric cancer patients are eligible to receive all blood types to help along with their chemo treatments.
A blood drive is being held on Wednesday, June 28, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Ferris-Goodridge Post #330, 691 Trimmer Road, Spencerport. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or go to http://www.redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment.
Provided information
