Marsh officials call for blood donations due to shortage

The recent flu outbreak coupled with major blood usage has caused serious shortages in the Tri Cities.

The Marsh Regional Blood Center is encouraging the public, especially those with A, B, or O-negative, to make donations to help replenish depleted supplies. Marsh officials noted that O-negative can be used with any patient and their agency helps to stock blood at 28 facilities and all regional cancer centers. Collection centers are available in Kingsport, Bristol, and Johnson City and several blood drives are scheduled for the next two months.