Canadian Blood Services calls on donors as supply dwindles
Posted Feb 1, 2022 05:34:25 PM.
Canadian Blood Services has issued a plea, calling on new and returning donors to help replenish the supply as inventory reaches low levels.
The agency said the number of donors rolling up their sleeves has been on a steady decline across Canada since the pandemic began.
The circulation of the Omicron variant has also impacted clinics. Some donors have had to cancel appointments because they're sick or self-isolating, and some staff have been off-work as well.
“By booking appointments over the next several weeks, donors can help us reverse this worrying trend before the situation becomes urgent,” said Canadian Blood Services CEO, Dr. Graham Sher, in a release. “Today, new donors are more important than ever. One in two people in Canada are eligible to donate blood, plasma, and platelets, but only one in 81 does.”
Those interested in scheduling an appointment can call 1-888-2-DONATE or click here.
