There is a shortage of blood at the blood bank of Seychelles Hospital, health officials say.
Chief Technologist for Clinical Laboratory Joanne Michel has described the situation as critical. She said all blood groups are affected.
“At present, we have between three and six units for each blood group,” Mrs Michel said.
As a result, the Ministry of Health is unable to meet current demand from patients who require blood transfusions.
Mrs Michel said the shortage is a recurring issue in January. She explained that fewer blood drives are organised during this period.
“This is mainly because many workplaces have staff on leave,” she said.
Only two blood drives took place in January 2026. Mrs Michel said this had significantly affected blood stock levels.
She added that demand has also increased. Since the start of January, several patients admitted to Seychelles Hospital have required blood transfusions over multiple days.
“This has placed additional pressure on our supply,” she said.
Mrs Michel explained that blood storage life depends on the type of product. Plasma can remain stored for up to one year when preserved correctly.
Platelets can remain stored for up to six days. Whole blood can remain stored for up to one month.
She said the current demand at Seychelles Hospital is mainly for platelets and whole blood.
Under guidelines from the Ministry of Health, men can donate blood every three months. Women can donate every four months.
Mrs Michel said blood donation criteria in Seychelles are based on international standards. She added that work is under way to review these criteria.
“The aim is to ensure they remain in line with international standards,” she said, adding that the review could have a positive impact on blood supplies.
The Ministry of Health is now calling on individuals, groups and organisations to donate blood to help stabilise the situation.
Mrs Michel said blood donation is a humanitarian act that can save lives.