THE PROVINCIAL Government of Pampanga hosted a voluntary blood donation drive over the weekend with the help of the medical staff of Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital (JBLMGH).
Dr. Ma. Imelda Ignacio of the Provincial Health Office said that activity had been supported by Governor Dennis Pineda in order to replenish blood bank supplies especially during this pandemic where there are considerable restrictions in accessing blood donations from the public.
Capitol employees and officials participated in the drive along with representatives from partner agencies like the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire among others.
Blood donation drives also promote health consciousness as donors undergo screening first to determine if they are qualified to donate blood. Those aged 18 to 35 years old can give blood but donors aged 16 to 17 may donate but there should be parental consent. The donor must at least be 50 kilos and supports a healthy lifestyle.
Prior to the bloodletting activity, donors must abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages, increase fluid intake as well as rest adequately 24 hours before giving blood, take a non-fatty breakfast and wash arms before donating blood.