Canadian Blood Services is asking donors to replenish its reserves, which have dropped significantly in recent days due to bad weather conditions.
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The organization estimates that it has faced a shortfall of around 1,500 units of blood and plasma, or 10% of its forecasts. The society is asking citizens who can to make an appointment to help restore and increase blood and plasma supplies for patients this winter.
“We have had to cancel many collection events since December 20. Additionally, many donors were unable to show up for their appointments, Rick Prinzen, general manager of supply chain and vice president of donor relations, said in a statement. We expect the disruptions to continue in the coming weeks as winter weather continues to batter the country.”
There is a critical need for platelets which are needed for patients with severe bleeding or undergoing cancer treatments. O-negative blood is also particularly sought after.
National blood supplies have shrunk by more than 35% since the start of October.
Adequate level in Quebec
In Quebec, where blood donations are the responsibility of Héma-Québec, blood supplies “are currently at an adequate level”.
“But it’s still fragile, and we are sensitive to what Canadian Blood Services is going through. It’s the holiday season, it’s the end of the year, donors are busy, but we must remember that the need for blood products does not take a vacation,” the organization said in a press release. .
Héma-Québec’s Director of Public Relations and Outreach, Patrice Lavoie, took the opportunity to issue a challenge to Quebecers who have never donated blood.
“I made my first blood donation in early December. It’s fast, it doesn’t hurt and it feels like it saves lives. Come and bring a family member or friend. Several collections are organized by the end of the year and at the beginning of January all over Quebec, and our donation centers are open,” he suggested.