Officials with the Georgia division of LifeSouth are asking the community for blood donations as they deal with a platelet shortage.
Lori Russell, Georgia district director for LifeSouth, says it's unclear exactly what is causing the sudden shortage.
"We are kind of scratching our heads right now," Russell said. "I think school is back, people are busy. Life just happens, understandably."
To encourage blood donations, LifeSouth is now offering $40 e-gift cards to anyone who donates blood. Russell said donations can be made at any of their centers or blood drives.
"There are a lot of people in our community that might not qualify. They may have traveled somewhere that might indicate it might be a risk for the blood supply, they might take medication." Russell said. "I encourage those people that can't donate to grab a friend that can. Let's go down to the blood center. Let's do something positive for the community."
Russell said the shortage is likely not an issue that will be resolved quickly, as blood platelets can only live outside the body for five days. She said those platelets can be vital for trauma cases and cancer treatments.
"We've really kind of been triaging the situation," Russell said.
LifeSouth has three locations in Northeast Georgia in Gainesville, Cumming and Lawrenceville. More information on how to donate and qualify for the e-gift cards can be found on their website.
