Blood Types

All blood donors are important, but if you are type O or AB, you are special because type O negative red blood cells and type AB plasma can be transfused to any patient. Your donations are VITAL - please donate as often as you can, every 56 days for red blood cells and every 28 days for plasma.

Having blood immediately available when it is needed may help save many lives.

You Can Receive This Type of Red Blood Cells

If you are this blood type.   O- O+ B- B+ A- A+ AB- AB+
AB+ X X X X X X X X
AB- X * X * X * X *
A+ X X     X X    
A- X *     X *    
B+ X X X X        
B- X * X *        
O+ X X            
O- X *            
X Routine Transfusion Compatibiltiy
* Although compatible, use only in emergencies.

You Can Receive This Type of Plasma

If you are this blood type.   O- O+ B- B+ A- A+ AB- AB+
AB+             X X
AB-             X X
A+         X X X X
A-         X X X X
B+     X X     X X
B-     X X     X X
O+ X X X X X X X X
O- X X X X X X X X
X Routine Transfusion Compatibiltiy

Facts About Blood and Your Blood Donation

  • The average adult has 10 to 12 pints of blood in their body;
  • Your one donation can save up to 3 lives!
  • No valid substitute for blood so when you need it the only place to get it is from other human beings;
  • Medical research show African Americans have some rare blood traits found in their blood;
  • Any day, these facts could mean the difference between life and death;
  • Every 2 sec, someone needs a blood transfusion;
  • You cannot get AIDS or any other disease by giving blood;
  • You can give whole blood every 56 days, single platelets every 48 hours, or a single plasma donation every 28 days.
Blood Type and RH % of Population
O Positive 38% *
O Negative 7% *
A Positive 34%
A Negative 6%
B Positive 9%
B Negative 2%
AB Positive 3% **
AB Negative 1% **

*  In an emergency, anyone can receive type O red blood cells.  People with type O blood are known as “universal donors”.

** Type AB individuals can receive red blood cells of any ABO type.  Those with type AB blood are known as “universal recipients.”  In addition, AB plasma donors can give to all blood types.

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