Blood donors are needed as LifeSouth and blood centers across the nation are experiencing unprecedented declines in blood donation, leading to a significantly impacted blood supply.

Blood supplies have been low for months, and the resurgence of COVID-19 and the Omicron variant is causing blood drive cancellations, staffing challenges and donor eligibility misinformation, furthering the seriousness of the shortage. However, the need for blood is urgent, and blood donors are asked to donate soon.

Donating blood is safe, takes about an hour and can save three lives. LifeSouth and LifeSouth blood donors serve patients at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta Medical Center, North Fulton Hospital, Habersham Medical Center, Spalding Regional Medical Center and Sylvan Grove Hospital.

Blood can be donated after receiving the Moderna, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson vaccines for COVID-19 or the flu vaccination.

Blood donors will receive refreshments, and a mini-physical including cholesterol, iron level, temperature and blood pressure. To find a blood drive near you or for more information about hosting a blood drive, visit lifesouth.org or call 888-795-2707.