An Update on Indian Red Cross Action in responding to the Dengue Fever
New Delhii; October 5th, 2006

The dengue outbreak in the capital city of Delhi has killed 15 and affected more than 600 people.

The Red Cross Blood Bank has prepared itself to cope up with the demand of the platelet concentration. The staff, including doctors and technicians, are working round the clock. Apart from this partner donor organizations are also assisting in holding blood donation camps to meet the demand and it is being ensured that patients need of blood products are met.

In the first week of October the demand for platelet concentrate has increased by 10 fold as compared to the week before. Around 19 blood donation camps are lined up till October 20th to facilitate collection of fresh blood, which is a pre-requisite for the preparation of platelets.

Dr. S.P. Agarwal, Secretary General, Indian Red Cross Society in various forums has said that, “The National Headquarters, IRCS is fully prepared to meet the demand of the platelets as there is no shortage of it with the blood bank”. He further stated that, “There is no need to panic and appealed that every individual should take precautionary measures for self protection.

The Secretary General himself is closely monitoring the situation.