Uganda: Blood shortage causes hospital disruptions

Event

Government health officials launched a nationwide blood drive on Monday, January 15, in order to combat a critical shortage at the central blood bank in Kampala. According to officials, the bank only holds 150 units of blood - below the capital's daily requirement. The shortage has led to hospitals canceling procedures and prioritizing medical cases. Reports say public health programs require an additional UGX 7 billion (USD 1,960,000) to address the shortage.

Context

Ugandan hospitals require at least 340,000 units of blood each year, but normally only collect approximately 200,000 units from blood drives and other sources.

Advice

Potentially impacted individuals in Uganda should confirm doctor's appointments and anticipate related service disruptions at hospitals for the duration of the shortage.​