Blood Donations Remain Low in Maldives, Expected to Recover by Next Month

Blood donations in the Maldives remain low but are expected to return to normal levels by the middle of next month, according to an update issued by the Ley app.

The Maldives Blood Services (MBS) last month urged the public to donate blood after stocks at the national blood bank fell to critical levels.

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Health Protection Agency (HPA) officials reported that cases of diarrhoea and vomiting continue to rise across the Maldives, a trend that has increased the demand for blood.

The Ley app noted that the ongoing peak tourism season has also contributed to the shortage, as many resort employees, who make up a significant share of regular donors, are unable to donate during this period. With the peak season expected to end soon, donation levels are projected to return to normal next month.

According to the app, most regular donors are young people aged 18 and above. However, anyone aged 18 or older and weighing more than 45 kg is eligible to donate. Donations are accepted after identifying the donor’s blood group, assessing their health, and completing standard safety checks.

Those wishing to donate can visit the MBS Blood Bank at Orange Hiyaa in Hulhumale’, Hulhumale’ Hospital, or Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male’. The Orange Hiyaa blood bank operates daily from 08:00 to 20:00, except on Sundays.

The Ley app has urged eligible donors to give blood without delay to help meet the ongoing demand.