Blood-donation nonprofit OneBlood , which serves hundreds of hospitals in the southeastern U.S., has been hit with a ransomware cyberattack that is affecting Florida hospitals, according to a release .
Although OneBlood remains operational and continues to collect, test and distribute blood, the release said, the impact to the organization’s software has significantly slowed their processes and shipments to hospitals.
“We have implemented manual processes and procedures to remain operational,” said OneBlood spokesperson Susan Forbes “Manual processes take significantly longer to perform and impact inventory availability.
“In an effort to further manage the blood supply we have asked the more than 250 hospitals we serve to activate their critical blood shortage protocols and to remain in that status for the time being,” she said.
Blood donations needed in Florida
OneBlood urges anyone eligible to donate blood to do so and help manage the blood supply at local hospitals.
“The blood supply cannot be taken for granted. The situation we are dealing with is ongoing. If you are eligible to donate, we urge you to please make an appointment to donate as soon as possible,” said Forbes.