Today is World Blood Donor Day, and the importance of donating blood remains as vital as ever — especially with the COVID situation putting a strain on donations.
Manitoba’s Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin explains there have been much fewer people donating blood over these past few months.
“The arrival of COVID-19 in Manitoba introduced a wave of uncertainty and concern. Canadian Blood Services recorded a significant drop in donations, and many mobile events were suddenly cancelled due to COVID-19.”
Roussin explains Canadian Blood Services have ratcheted up their health, safety and sanitation measures at donor centres. The patients undergoing cancer treatment, surgery, and trauma victims are all still relying on blood.
“The blood supply is just as important now, and even more important because of the decrease in donations during this time.”
Dr. Roussin asks if you’re in good health, to book an appointment with Canadian Blood Services at blood.ca.
National Blood Donor Week ran from June 8–14, 2020.
