Blood bank says there’s a shortage of "O-neg"

Officials at the state’s largest independent blood collection center have declared an emergency as they are dangerously low on the amount of type “O-negative” blood on hand. Christine Hayes is spokeswoman for the Blood Center of Iowa. says few people have “O-negative” blood, but it’s the blood type that is commonly used in emergency situations.Hayes says people with “O-negative” blood are universal donors, because anyone can accept “O-negative” blood. The blood center serves 45 hospitals in 41 central and northeastern Iowa counties. To find the nearest blood donation center near you, surf to “www.bloodonor.org/donate.asp” for more information.