OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Blood Institute is reminding the public that people do not need to wait to donate blood or blood products after receiving the most common COVID-19 vaccines, including Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.
Those who have been vaccinated can give blood immediately, assuming they’re feeling well.
“Donation rates have dropped as more Oklahomans receive the vaccine,” Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute, said in a news release. “We’re concerned that potential donors believe they are not eligible to give — which is not true. Although our state’s blood supply remains stable, we need more donors to give now to make sure we have a healthy supply of blood on the shelf when needed.”
Donors can make appointments to donate at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. A donation takes about an hour and can save up to three lives.