Return of elective surgeries drives blood shortage - June 24, 2021

Jobless claims in the past week resumed their downward trajectory, reaching 380,000 in a steady decline along with a pickup in hiring and optimistic consumer sentiment. The decline comes as a record 4 million people left their jobs this spring in search of better pay, flexibility and fulfillment, prompting a nationwide labor shortage. Restaurant and hotel workers led the way in resignations, signaling a post-pandemic change in employee desires for how and when to work. ‘The pandemic has proven it’s doable’: Inside Pepsico’s flexible-working model - Digiday Why you might not want to rush back into the office - Marketplace Federal health officials noted that there is a “likely association” between the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and heart inflammation in teens and young adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said at a public meeting on Wednesday that the side effect is extremely rare and that most people who experienced it have recovered and are doing well. Savannah doctor eases concern of heart inflammation in young adults who've been vaccinated - Fox 28 Savannah @toadmeister: The U.S. medicines regulator is set to add a warning to the Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccines after the CDC said there is a "likely link" between them and cases of heart inflammation. The American Red Cross is warning of a “severe” blood shortage as the return to pre-pandemic activities results in an increase in elective surgeries, organ transplants and emergency care. The organization said it has experienced a 10% increase in red blood cell demand from hospital trauma centers over last year and distributed 75,000 more blood products than expected over the past three months. @RedCrossLA: CALLING ALL TYPE O DONORS: Type O+ & O- blood are the most in-demand blood types, helping patients facing life-threatening conditions & emergencies every day. Right now, there is a severe shortage of your essential blood type. Please schedule your donation @modrnhealthcr: More than a third of community blood centers