Is the 'Blood on Call' Service a Hoax? Government Issues Warning!

Government Alerts Public About False Blood Service Claims

New Delhi: The Central government has issued a warning regarding a misleading social media post about a supposed blood service, advising citizens to be cautious.

The viral message inaccurately claims that a nationwide 'Blood on Call' service is available through the number 104.

According to the post, individuals could call 104 to request blood, which would be delivered within four hours and within a 40 km radius.

It also states that the service would charge Rs 450 per blood unit and Rs 100 for delivery, encouraging recipients to share the information widely.

The post urges, 'Please forward this message to your friends, relatives, and groups. Many lives can be saved from this facility.'

However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), responsible for countering misinformation about government initiatives, has confirmed that no such service exists.

In a fact-check alert, PIB stated, 'The Government of India is not operating any such scheme. This number is utilized for various helpline services in certain states.'

While the helpline number 104 is operational in several states, it is primarily for general health inquiries, telemedicine consultations, or Covid-19 support, not for blood delivery.

This false claim has been circulating online since 2022.

The PIB has urged the public to verify any government-related information through official channels before sharing.

Disseminating misinformation, even unintentionally, can create public confusion and misuse healthcare resources, they cautioned.

This incident highlights a recurring issue of false medical claims on social media, and the government continues to advise vigilance, especially regarding messages that seem too good to be true or lack official confirmation.