Tirana’s Rapid Intervention Forces have donated blood for children suffering from thalassemia in Albania.
The police responded to a call from the Red Cross to donate blood amid a national shortage. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, already low stocks of blood have decreased further as people are concerned to enter the hospital premises during the pandemic. This has resulted in a situation where many children who require transfusions every two weeks, are going without. This can lead to severe health consequences.
Thalassemia is a hereditary disease that results in less hemoglobin being produced. Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen in the blood. Severe forms of the disease require regular transfusions otherwise issues such as bone deformities, enlarged spleen, slowed growth, heart problems, and a higher risk of infection.
In the coming days, other sectors of the police will donate as well.
Last week, a blood drive for foreign citizens in Albania, kicked off in Tirana. Around 12 people gave blood and it marked the start of a drive that will take place in Vlora, Durres, Tirana, and Saranda in the coming weeks,
The event was organized by Exit journalist Alice Taylor and attended by the Swedish Ambassador to Albania, Elsa Hastad and President Ilir Meta.
More details about upcoming donation dates will be announced in due course.
