The NHS has revealed that one in four blood donors have a special type of blood that can help critically ill babies. Known as 'NEO' blood, it is free of cytomegalovirus (CMV), a harmless virus in most adults but potentially fatal for newborns with underdeveloped immune systems.
NHS Blood and Transplant says 200,000 of England's 800,000 regular donors have NEO-labelled blood, though most are unaware their donation can save the tiniest lives. Every week, hospitals in England need around 500 units of red cells suitable for newborn patients, and health leaders are urging more people to register as donors.
Two-year-old Joey Thacker owes his life to NEO blood. Born at 27 weeks with twin Eva, he underwent emergency surgery for a bowel perforation at two days old and went into septic shock, requiring an urgent transfusion. His mother Meghan Lusby, 26, from Lincoln, said: 'Every time Joey went into surgery the doctors weren't sure if he was going to make it. It was life or death. Joey would not be here if the hospital did not have the blood he needed.'
Blood donor Katie Parker, 43, from Birmingham, recently discovered her donations are suitable for newborns. The news was poignant as blood transfusions saved the life of her stepsister Kate after catastrophic blood loss during childbirth. Katie said: 'I had no idea I had NEO blood until the donor carer told me. It made me think of Kate and I texted her straight away. It was quite an emotional moment.'
Gerry Gogarty, director of blood supply at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: 'Every donor can be proud that their generous act will save or improve the life of a seriously ill child or adult. We know our donors feel especially touched if they see a blue “NEO” tag on their donation bag, knowing their blood can help the most vulnerable patients.'
There is a particular need for B negative, O negative, Ro and Black heritage donors ahead of Easter and the May bank holiday, when stock levels typically drop. NHS teams will be open and collecting blood every day.
