The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expecting a severe flu season this year, and that could have a negative impact on the nation’s already-struggling blood supply, according to the American Red Cross, which will hold a blood drive later this month in Gloucester.

The drive will be held from 1-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 23, at the Abingdon Ruritan Club, 8784 Guinea Road.

The American Red Cross continues to address an emergency blood and platelets shortage, and donors of all blood types—especially type O—are needed to make an appointment now to help ensure it doesn’t get worse as we move into winter, a release stated.

There is no blood donation waiting period for those who have received a flu shot or a Moderna, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson

COVID-19 vaccine or booster, so long as they are symptom-free. Donors are urged to schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

To e...