From Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA10)’s office:
Rep. Wexton Gives Blood at Inova, Encourages All Virginians to Donate Blood
Sterling, VA — Today, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (VA-10) donated blood at the Inova Dulles Donor Center.
“The need for blood is constant and donating is an important way people can make a difference,” said Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton. “Everyone needs to be practicing responsible social distancing right now, but we need people to know that giving blood is safe and that their donations will save lives. There’s a critical need in our community and across the country. I gave blood this afternoon and I’m encouraging all healthy Virginians to do the same.”
Wexton is encouraging all Virginians who are able to donate blood to do so. Well-meaning public health measures such as social distancing have had the unintended consequence of a major decrease in blood donations due to canceled drives and appointments as schools and workplaces become virtual and individuals seek to avoid contact with others.
However, blood collection events are not mass gatherings and must continue as an essential part of our health care system and preparedness activities.
Blood has a limited shelf life and the supply must be continually replenished to ensure it is always available to meet the need. Regardless of the spread of COVID-19, cancer patients, those with blood disorders, trauma victims, and others will continue to need life-saving blood transfusions.
Blood donation is a concrete action that healthy individuals can perform to help during this pandemic.The FDA has reiterated that the virus poses no known risk to patients receiving blood transfusions.
Appointments to give blood with Inova can be made here.
Appointments to give blood with the American Red Cross here.
Photos and B-roll from the Congresswoman’s visit, available for widespread distribution, can be found here.
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