Officials at United Blood Services say they need donors with AB type blood immediately.

“AB donors are rare but the need for that particular blood type is great. Specifically, patients are in need of AB platelets and plasma,” said Heather Knight, United Blood Services spokesperson. “These blood products are used as a clotting agent for cancer patients, patients undergoing surgeries and burn victims, among others.”

Knight said summer months are typically a hard time for the blood bank because many people are on the road and school is out, so regular donors and student donors are not giving blood as often but the need is still there.

United Blood Services is located in Meridian at 1115 25th Ave, in Hattiesburg at 805 S. 28th Ave. and in Tupelo at 4326 S. Eason Blvd. To schedule an appointment call 1.877.EZ 2 GIVE.

Office hours in Meridian are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 11 am – 6 pm; Tuesday 9 am – 4 pm; Saturday 9 am-2 pm and Sunday 1-5 pm.

Hattiesburg Center hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 10 am – 6 pm; Wednesday and Friday 8 am - 4 pm and Sunday 1-6 pm.

Tupelo Center Hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 11 am – 7 pm; Wednesday and Friday 9 am -5 pm; Saturday 8 am – 2 pm; Sunday 2-6 pm