‘Perfect storm’ of cyber attack means this lifesaving medical treatment is at ‘unprecedentedly low levels’ as NHS issues alert

A cyber-attack on NHS hospitals has led to a critical shortage of O-type blood, as stocks dropped to unprecedentedly low levels. NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) has issued an amber warning, restricting use of O-type blood to essential cases, and promoting substitution where clinically safe. Hospitals are urged to implement emergency measures to decrease usage. NHSBT has asked O negative and O positive donors to book appointments as soon as possible.