RAPID CITY, S.D.(KOTA)- More gore needed – that’s the message as the blood supply in the Black Hills is below a three-day supply for the first time since May of 2020, in what has been described as a “critical shortage.”

Tori Robbins, communications director with (Vi-TAL-ent) Vitalant Blood Services said patients are in need of claret from donors right now.

Robbins said if you carry O type blood, you’re in high demand.

Robbins said blood units are up since declaring the shortage, but consistent donations will be needed for weeks to come before the “critical shortage” can end.

There is a general blood shortage nationwide, largely blamed on the lack of large-scale donation events through the Covid-19 Pandemic. Potential donors are encouraged to call the Vitalant center in Rapid City to set up an appointment.