Australian Blood Service spokesman Harry Ahmed said there were 39 appointments to be filled this week, and particularly Friday and the blood was needed to meet the needs of patients and hospital demands.

"During the winter season we can sometimes see our regular donors cancel appointments, if they are feeling unwell, as a result of cold and flu," Mr Ahmed said.

"If you are suffering from cold or flu, you need to wait between seven to 14 days until after your symptoms have cleared before you can give blood.

"Given blood only has a shelf life of 42 days, the need for blood is constant and we need donors of all blood types."

In addition to residents from Orange and its surrounds donating blood there have also been almost 300 donations in a couple of months through the Billy Blood Drop Challenge and Red Love blood drive.

People who are aged over 18, feel fit and healthy, and want to donate, book in to donate at donateblood.com.au or phone 13 14 95.