RIYADH — The Ministry of Health has urged citizens as well as residents to donate blood at regular intervals.

Dr. Muhammad Al-Abdel Ali, spokesman of the ministry, underlined the continued need to donate blood taking into consideration the large number of people who are in need of blood as it cannot be manufactured but can only be obtained through donors.

Dr. Ali urged all those who wish to donate blood to register their names using the “Wateen” application on their smart phones. “This app will enable the intending blood donors to schedule their appointments with blood banks at hospitals and organize their trips after obtaining the necessary permit,” he said while addressing a daily press conference to brief the media about the latest developments on coronavirus.

“The environment designated for receiving donors in blood banks is an appropriate one where health requirements and high precautions are applied to ensure safety of all,” he added. — SG