The level of blood stocks have reached critical levels, the National Blood Transfusion Service warned on Saturday, amid a major appeal for donations.

The high demand for blood in hospitals as well as a drop in the number of donors in the last week has led to a drastic drop in the stocks of all blood types.

"In this moment of need, the Maltese are being asked to show their generosity," a statement from the department on Saturday said.

The blood supplies will go a long way to service patients as well as prepare for the stocks normally needed during the festive season, it added.

Donors are requested to take with them the identity card while those who have returned from overseas in the last four weeks are asked to call on 8007 4313 to check whether they can donate blood.

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