Forced cancelations of blood drives due to COVID-19 continue to negatively impact the blood supply, which endangers those needing life-saving blood transfusions.
LifeSouth along with the FDA urges donors to donate blood now and pleads for organizations to host blood drives. Blood donors are needed every day, and anyone who is in good health is encouraged to donate. “We have already seen a significant decrease in donations as the outbreak progresses and are facing a critical public health risk if the blood supply continues to decline,” said LifeSouth’s Vice President of Medical Services Dr. Chris Lough.
The coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives.
To find a blood drive near you or for more information about hosting a blood drive, visit lifesouth.org or call 888-795-2707.
About LifeSouth: LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 100 hospitals in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. LifeSouth is committed to meeting the blood supply needs of hospitals and their patients by providing the highest quality blood components and services. With more than 30 donor centers, 45 bloodmobiles and 2,000 blood drives a month, the LifeSouth team is dedicated to making sure the blood is there when a patient is in need.