Berlin, December 22 – The German Red Cross (DRK) has issued an urgent call for blood donations in Berlin, as the supply of blood groups O+ and O- has fallen to critical levels this December. The DRK reports that the current blood reserves for these types have dropped to 40% of their optimal capacity.
Urgent Need for O+ and O- Blood Donors
Blood group O+ is the most common blood type, found in 35% of the German population, while blood group O- is present in only 6%. Despite their prevalence, these universal donor types are experiencing severe shortages. The DRK emphasizes that approximately 14,000 blood donations are needed daily across Germany to ensure the continuous supply for critically ill patients and accident victims.
As a first-time donor, individuals can receive a free blood test and learn their blood type, in addition to the invaluable act of saving lives.
Upcoming Blood Donation Appointments in Berlin
Residents of Berlin have several opportunities to make a life-saving donation. While smaller communities often host special donation drives, larger cities like Berlin offer permanent blood donation centers. The next immediate opportunities for blood donation in Berlin are scheduled for this coming Monday.
Key Donation Locations and Times:
- Blutspendezentrum im ALEXA: Grunerstr. 20, December 22, 2025, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Institut Berlin: Hindenburgdamm 30A, December 23, 2025, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Estrel Hotel: Sonnenallee 225, December 26, 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
For a comprehensive list of all donation appointments in Berlin, the DRK’s official website provides detailed information.
Eligibility Requirements for Blood Donation
To donate blood, individuals must be at least 18 years old, feel healthy on the day of donation, and bring their identity card. The donation process typically takes between five to ten minutes. Following the donation, donors are advised to rest for an additional ten minutes for regeneration and are offered a small snack.
Those unsure about their eligibility to donate can utilize the DRK’s self-check tool available on their website.
The Importance of Blood Group O
While all blood donations are vital, blood group O holds particular significance. Individuals with blood type O are considered universal donors, meaning their blood can be transfused to patients of all other blood groups. However, people with blood group O can only receive blood from their own type. The situation is especially critical for blood group O Rhesus negative, given its scarcity among the population.
In addition to the DRK, other organizations such as the private company Haema and various hospitals, particularly university clinics, also accept blood donations.
Source: news.de
