San Juan Regional Medical Center and United Blood Services (now Vitalant) will host a blood drive from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday in the hospital’s main parking lot, 801 W. Maple St., Farmington.
Although walk-ins will be accommodated, appointments are encouraged to help maintain social distancing. Donors may schedule appointments online at www.bloodhero.com.
United Blood Services will not test for COVID-19, but donors will be screened for symptoms and potential exposure to keep everyone safe. This includes two temperature screens before donating.
Donors must be at least 16 years old (under age 18 requires signed permission of parent or guardian), must weigh at least 110 pounds, must be in general good health with a temperature below 99.5 degrees, must bring identification and should not be under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs at time of donation.
Donors should drink plenty of water 24 to 48 hours beforehand and 8 to 16 ounces an hour before the appointment and eat a healthy, low fat meal about two hours before the donation. Donation takes about an hour.
