CIU Academician Prof. Dr. Hatice Sütçü, made a call for people who can donate blood within the scope of Red Crescent Week

Cyprus International University (CIU) School of Health Sciences Department of Nursing Chair, Prof. Dr. Hatice Sütçü, making a statement within the scope of Red Crescent Week that is celebrated between 20 October – 4 November, noted that the social service institution Red Crescent has from past to present provided services in many areas, including natural disasters and wars, continuing their aid activities in all extraordinary situations.

Explaining that the Northern Cyprus Turkish Red Crescent Society continues to work for international recognition while continuing their efforts to help refugees and those in need within the country, Sütçü went on to say, "When it comes to those who need blood, especially thalassemia patients, it is one of the most important blood supplying institutions”.

Reminding that every individual in the TRNC can financially donate to the Red Crescent in accordance to their economic situation, Prof. Dr. Sütçü additionally pointed out the importance of those with certain qualities donating blood.

Drawing attention to the fact that there has been a reduction in blood like product donations experienced, such as thrombocyte and blood, due to the COVID-19 epidemic that has been experienced across the world, Sütçü reminded, “Once the blood has been taken, it cannot be stored for a long period of time. Additionally, blood is not just for emergencies, it’s a constant need”.

Calling out to those who are able to do blood donations, Prof. Dr. Sütçü continued, “Blood donators should be between the ages 18-60, who haven’t had the COVID-19 infection within the last 28 days, is not currently experiencing any cold-like symptoms (fever, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, muscle ache, headache, throat ache, shortness of breath), and have not had any contact with anyone that has been unwell recently”.

Explaining that those who have had their vaccine can give blood within 7 days of having the vaccine if they haven’t displayed any symptoms, Sütçü advised that in the event that symptoms are experienced, blood can be donated after 7 days have passed from having the illness.

Reminding that at blood donation centers, protective precautions such as hygiene and isolation are taken, Prof. Dr. Sütçü expressed that those who wish to donate blood can do so safely.