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Blood donations important during COVID-19 crisis

May 21, 2020   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

While the COVID-19 crisis is at the top of everyone’s concern when it comes to health care, Canadian Blood Services wants to remind everyone that there is still a need for blood donations during this time.

Regular blood donating events are continuing, however measures are being taken to ensure the safety of both donors and Blood Service workers.

“We have taken steps to comply with the Public Health Agency of Canada’s directive on physical distancing,” Canadian Blood Services said in a statement. “We have added screening measures for the safety of donors and employees. We are shifting capacities in a manner that optimizes our collection network and abides by the latest scientific evidence. This may mean some changes to or cancellations of donation events, keeping in mind that our goal is to ensure all donors continue to receive the best possible experience every time they donate.”

While blood donating centres are still open in Guelph, Barrie, and Mississauga, the agency says it has had to cancel three local events.

The June 12, event at the Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex in Shelburne has been cancelled, as well as the monthly donation events at the Best Western hotel in Orangeville on May 25, and June 29.

“The need for blood will continue during this pandemic and it’s important to understand this is a marathon, not a sprint. We are grateful for donors who continue to support Canada’s lifeline and thankful for the care and dedication of our employees.”

You can still donate blood however you will need an appointment for the time being.

Appointments help the agency to minimize the number of people at a donation centre at a given time.

By booking an appointment, donor can complete a pre-screening questionnaire before they arrive at a donor centre which can allow them to self-defer in keeping with health and safety recommendations.

You can book an appointment on-line at www.blood.ca, on the GiveBlood app, or by calling 1-888 2 Donate (1-888-236-6283) and make arrangements to visit a donor centre.


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