PRC assures adequate supply of blood amid rising dengue cases
THE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is ramping up its efforts to ensure that blood and medical support are readily available following alarming cases of dengue across the country.
As Ormoc City declares a state of calamity due to the health emergency, PRC chairman and CEO Richard Gordon has reassured the public of the organization’s readiness to address the situation.
“We want to assure everyone that blood for dengue patients – (random platelets and apheresis platelets) – is available at the Red Cross,” said Gordon.
“Our chapters in Iloilo and Ormoc are well-equipped, and we have the nearby Red Cross blood center in Capiz on standby. We have enough blood supplies in our network of chapters across the country to handle the current situation, and we can also deliver blood to areas in need.”
Ormoc City’s declaration of a state of calamity follows a staggering 225% surge in dengue cases compared to the same period last year.
In Quezon City, the City Health Office has also raised the alarm after identifying 12 barangays as dengue hotspots.
The Department of Health confirmed that dengue cases nationwide have risen by 33% this year compared to the same period in 2023.
The PRC, with its long-standing commitment to public health, has been providing blood services since 1947.
Over the years, the organization has expanded its capabilities, ensuring that its blood centers are fully equipped to meet the needs of patients across the country.
“Blood supply availability has always been a priority for the PRC, but we have now increased our capacities with modern blood center facilities,” Gordon emphasized.
Beyond the provision of blood, the PRC is also focusing on proactive health measures. “More than the provision of blood, we have health teams who are very aggressive in health promotions all over the country,” PRC’s Secretary Genera, Dr. Gwen Pang said.
These teams are working tirelessly to educate communities on dengue prevention, early detection, and control measures, particularly in high-risk areas like Iloilo and Quezon City.
The PRC’s comprehensive response, which includes the availability of blood, medical assistance, and widespread health education, is crucial in managing the current dengue outbreak and ensuring that communities receive the support they need.
For more information or to support the PRC’s efforts, the public may visit www.redcross.org.ph or contact their local Red Cross chapter.
