2019 edition of World Blood Donor Day (WBDD)

The World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) is observed every year on June 14 to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank blood donors. The 2019 theme “Blood Donation and Universal Access to Safe Blood Transfusion” is a component of achieving universal health coverage. The slogan – Safe Blood for All – has also been adopted. The theme strongly encourages more people all over the world to become blood donors and donate blood regularly. The day is an important occasion for all governments, national health authorities and national blood services to provide adequate infrastructures to increase collection of blood from regular unpaid blood donors. Blood is vital for treating the wounded during emergencies like natural disasters, accidents and armed conflicts. It has an essential, life-saving role in maternal care. For an effective health system, access to safe blood and blood products in sufficient quantity is a must.