Va., California Navy hospitals hold blood drive competition

Naval hospitals in Virginia and California are holding a friendly competition to see which one can collect the most pints of blood.

Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and Naval Medical Center San Diego are holding a blood drive through the end of February.

The Navy says blood donations drop off significantly after the holidays, although the need remains steady.

When collection goals aren't met, medical centers must require units from other treatment facilities or buy them from civilian agencies.

In Virginia, the Armed Services Blood Program will be scheduling extra blood drives at bases throughout the Hampton Roads region.

AP-WF-01-24-15 1500GMT