COVID-19 impact on blood donation and blood product use in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality.

BACKGROUND

Blood donation rates in sub-Saharan Africa are historically low. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic amplified this challenge, leading to significant declines in blood donations.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 on blood donation and utilisation in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM), South Africa, between April 2018 and March 2022.

METHODS

A retrospective analytical study was conducted using data from the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) Business Intelligence System. Blood donations and product utilisation were analysed across different time periods, aligning with COVID-19-related restrictions.

RESULTS

A substantial decrease in blood donations was observed during the pandemic. Blood collection decreased over all age groups but was particularly notable among younger donors (aged 15-39). Conversely, blood product utilisation increased across both public and private health care sectors during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on blood donation and utilisation in the MMM. To address future blood shortages, strategies are needed to encourage blood donation, optimise blood product utilisation and ensure equitable access to blood services.Contribution: The study contributes to understanding the impact of COVID-19 on blood donation and utilisation patterns in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in the MMM in South Africa.