By Cassie Klapp, County of San Diego Communications Office

April 9, 2023 (San Diego) -- One in seven people entering a hospital needs blood. Even more urgent, blood banks supplying those hospitals are often faced with shortages.  

That is why for 39 years, the County has hosted an annual blood drive to meet the critical need for donations.  

This year’s month-long event kicked off Monday, outside the County Administration Center, with Chief Medical Officer Eric McDonald describing the importance both donating and creating diversity among donors. 

“We don’t have to look far to find someone we know in need of blood. My mother needed a transfusion, and we are thankful to blood donors who made it possible for her to be here with us today,” said Dr. McDonald. “It is important for those who have donated, and for those who haven’t, to step forward to provide a diverse blood pool. Certain blood types and surface proteins are unique to specific groups and if you have someone with a similar ethnic background, a blood transfusion is less likely to cause a reaction.”

March 7, 2014 (San Diego's East County) - A case of tuberculosis has been reported at Helix Charter High School in La Mesa.  Students and staff may have been exposed, according to the County Health and Human Services Agency.