As influenza activity picks up this fall, the American Red Cross is urging healthy donors of all blood types to give blood to ensure a strong blood supply for patients in need. Blood can only be given by donors who are feeling well.

One way to maintain health is to get a flu vaccine each fall. There is no waiting period to give blood or platelets after receiving a flu shot as long as the donor is symptom-free and fever-free.

For those that have the flu, it is important to wait until they no longer exhibit flu symptoms, have recovered completely and feel well before attempting to donate. Donors must feel healthy and well on the day of donation.

Donors of all blood types, especially platelet donors and those with type O blood, are urged to give now to ensure a stable supply this fall. Stay healthy this flu season and make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

---

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

Adams

• Nov. 7: Noon to 6 p.m., Southland High School, 203 Second St.

Austin

• Nov. 1: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mower County Employees, 201 1st St. NE
• Nov. 14: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Riverland Community College, 1600 NW 8th Ave.
• Nov. 15: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mayo Clinic Health System, 1000 First Drive NW

Grand Meadow

• Nov. 7: 1-7 p.m., Emergency Service Building, 210 2nd St. SE

LeRoy

• Nov. 8: 1-7 p.m., Community Center, 204 W. Main St.

Hayfield

• Nov. 8: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hayfield High School, County Highway 31

Ellendale

• Nov. 4: 1-7 p.m., United Methodist Church, 200 6th St.