June 14, 2020 was World Blood Donor Day. Blood donations have
decreased because of COVID-19, but the need for blood is still
critical.
Canadian Blood
Services has repeatedly stressed the continual need for blood,
stem cells, plasma, and organ and tissue donors. Dr. Isra Levy, the
vice president of medical affairs and innovation at Canadian Blood
Services told CTV News, "Our blood products,
unfortunately, have very short shelf lives and if we're not
having donors come into our collection centres on a regular and
routine basis, we're always very close to the possibility that
we'll run into shortages."
It is important to note that it is still safe to donate blood
during the pandemic. Canadian Blood Services is pre-screening
donors before entering a donation centre; donors are asked about
their symptoms and travel history. The workers at the centres
practice physical distancing where possible and they continue to
take infection control measures at all facilities.
