Heading into the third year of the pandemic, the US blood supply is at a 10-year low

Blood donations have dropped at the same time that the need for blood is soaring. ExperienceInteriors/E+ via Getty Images

The blood supply in the U.S. is now at its lowest level in over a decade.

Many of the nation’s blood centers currently have only a one-day supply of some blood types in inventory. This is dangerous because blood transfusions are needed for many surgeries. Blood is also used in the treatment of diseases like sickle cell anemia and certain cancers – and is critical to help those who suffer injuries from accidents or disasters.