Nationwide blood drive launched to help hospitals at centre of cyber attack

A ransomware attack by Russian cyber criminals is targeting London hospitals, disrupting blood testing services and triggering an appeal for O type blood donors. The shortfall of universal blood type has forced cancellations of operations and tests at King’s, the Royal Brompton, Guys’, St Thomas’ and Evelina Children’s hospitals. The attacks have hindered their ability to match patients’ blood as frequently. The NHS faces shortages of this blood type, since school holidays and bank holidays typically lower donations.