A recent outbreak of colds and influenza in southeast Michigan has caused many individuals who had intended to donate blood to tell the Red Cross they can't give right now due to illness.

Unfortunately, that means the blood supply in local hospitals and medical facilities in southeast Michigan is dwindling quickly, causing the Red Cross to issue an urgent plea for healthy blood donors to step forward and give.

"The Southeastern Michigan Blood Services Region must collect 900 units of blood each and every day to support the needs of our local hospitals," said Martha Kurtz, communications associate for the Red Cross. "Our blood donors are so supportive, we felt if they knew about our current situation, they’d understand how much we need and appreciate them during this current challenge."

Historically, the flu season can last through the month of March and beyond, but the blood supply must be replenished now. While all blood donors are needed, people with type O negative and O positive blood are in highest demand.  Healthy donors are urged to make, and keep, their appointments.

To make an appointment to give blood, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you donate.

Upcoming blood drives

Registration information for these drives can be found at redcrossblood.org: 

March 15, 1 p.m.-7 p.m. - American Red Cross Donation Center, Farmington Hills

March 16, 2 p.m.-8 p.m. - Power Upper Elementary School, Farmington Hills

March 17, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. - American Red Cross Donation Center, Farmington Hills

March 18, 7:45 a.m.-1:45 p.m.- Adat Shalom Synagogue, Farmington Hills