Blood Bank of Delmarva urgently needs blood donors. If you can donate, please schedule an appointment or walk in to one of its five donor centers this week, the first full week of National Blood Donor Month.

In Salisbury, the Blood Bank is located at 1309 Mount Hermon Road.

“Because of the holiday, a flu epidemic this winter and unusually high blood usage these past few weeks, current blood inventories are not adequate. Our greatest need is for O Negative, the universal blood type,” said Michael Waite, director of Marketing and Community Relations for Blood Bank of Delmarva, “but we really need donors of all blood types to call us or walk in to one of our centers this week. Platelet donors are also urged to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

“Platelets have a shelf life of just five days, so it is imperative that we maintain an adequate supply,” said Waite.

In Salisbury, appointments are available Monday through Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and alternating Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Appointments will be added to accommodate anyone who is able to donate.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome. To schedule an appointment visit www.DelmarvaBlood.org or call 1 888 8-BLOOD-8.