A recent spike in cancelled appointments has Canadian Blood Services concerned. To avoid a shortage in supply, the organization is asking donors to make and keep appointments.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadian Blood Services reassures the public that it is safe to donate blood.
“Patients depend on these lifesaving donations,” says Dr. Isra Levy, Canadian Blood Services’ vice-president of medical affairs and innovation, in a press release. “Every day they are needed for patients undergoing surgery and cancer treatment, as well as to save lives following traumas such as motor vehicle accidents.”
Dr. Levy added that “donor centres are islands of wellness within Canada’s health system” and “are not places where sick people gather.”
Canadian Blood Services practices cleaning and infection-control. Further, all prospective donors are screened for any symptoms of illness. Screening takes place during both the appointment booking and once arriving at the donor centre. Anyone with symptoms is not allowed to donate blood and is asked not to visit.
There is a constant need for blood, stem cells, plasma and organ and tissue donors in Canada.
To make an appointment to donate, download the GiveBlood app, call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283) or book now at blood.ca.
Walk-in appointments are also available at all locations.
Canadian Blood Services adheres to the latest guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada including all recommendations for public gatherings during COVID-19. Should the agency’s recommendations change, Canadian Blood Services will act immediately.
More information is available at blood.ca/covid19.
