Due to an unfortunate series of events that began in November, the Inland Northwest Blood Center has been unable to “bulk up” its blood supply.

INBC is the blood supplier for more than 35 hospitals in the region. In Kootenai County, INBC supplies blood to Kootenai Health, Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital and Northwest Specialty Hospital. In Bonner County, INBC supplies blood to Bonner General Health.

INBC spokeswoman Tesia Lingenfelter said a 2-percent decrease in blood donations is being seen nationwide as a result of the spreading Zika virus. A 28-day waiting period is in effect for donors who traveled to areas affected by the Zika virus, which include Central and South America, Mexico and the Caribbean.

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