Healthy blood donors needed amid flu season
Eligible February donors offered gift card
– Vitalant is urging eligible donors to give blood during February as an active flu season reduces donor availability.
The nonprofit said healthy donors are especially needed when illness prevents others from donating. Community members are encouraged to donate at local blood drives or donation centers throughout the month.
As part of a February incentive, eligible donors who give blood during the month may receive a $15 gift card. Donors must opt in to Vitalant Donor Rewards and use the code GIVELOVE-2026-V when scheduling to qualify.
Vitalant said donors of all blood types are needed, with a particular need for type O and platelet donors. Type O blood can be used for patients of all blood types. Platelets are frequently required for cancer treatment and other medical needs and must be used within a week of donation.
Select upcoming blood drives in San Luis Obispo County include:
• Sunday, Feb. 1 — Paso Robles, Walmart, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wednesday, Feb. 4 — San Luis Obispo, California Polytechnic State University, Dexter East, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 8 — Atascadero, Home Depot, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Monday, Feb. 9 — Del Rey Oaks, Old Town Hall, 1 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
• Saturday, Feb. 14 — San Luis Obispo, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Saturday, Feb. 14 — Paso Robles, River Oaks, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, Feb. 18 — Shandon, Shandon Library, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Tuesday, Feb. 24 — Arroyo Grande, Arroyo Grande Hospital, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Vitalant said these events represent only some of the more than two dozen community blood drives held weekly throughout the Central Coast. Donors may also give blood at the Vitalant San Luis Obispo Donation Center at 4119 Broad St.
