Canadian Blood Services is facing a severe blood shortage, with donations plummeting by nearly 20% since June 1, according to the agency. The shortage affects the blood supply in all provinces except Quebec, which is managed by Héma-Québec.

Blood Donation Needs

Canadian Blood Services needs approximately 18,000 blood donations every week to meet hospital demand, but there has been a shortfall of between 1,500 and 2,500 appointments each week, the agency stated. This shortfall is beyond the usual drop in donations during the summer months.

The agency is urging people across Canada to book a blood donation appointment, as all blood types are needed. Ron Vezina, a spokesperson for Canadian Blood Services, emphasized the importance of donations, saying "Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days, so today’s donation will quickly make its way to a patient."

Quebec Blood Supply

Héma-Québec, which manages the blood supply in Quebec, has also seen a decline in blood donations since the end of June, according to Patrice Lavoie, a spokesperson for the agency. Lavoie stated that Héma-Québec needs approximately 1,000 blood donations every day to meet the needs of patients across the province.

Lavoie noted that "Summer is traditionally a more fragile period for the blood supply. Many regular donors are on vacation or simply forget to book an appointment." Canadian Blood Services is adding more opportunities for people to donate blood, including more weekend appointments at its centres.

Donation Opportunities

People can book donation appointments at blood.ca, on the GiveBlood app, or by calling 1-888-2-DONATE. In Quebec, people can book appointments through hemaquebec.ca. Several plasma-specific donor centres will also accept whole blood donations, according to Canadian Blood Services.

As the August long weekend approaches, Canadian Blood Services is concerned about meeting the increased demand for blood due to potential trauma cases and other urgent care needs. The agency is counting on Canadians to donate blood and help maintain a stable blood supply.

  • 18,000 blood donations needed per week
  • 1,500-2,500 appointment shortfall per week
  • 42-day shelf life for blood donations
  • 1,000 daily blood donations needed in Quebec

Canadian Blood Services and Héma-Québec will continue to monitor the blood supply and adjust their efforts to meet the needs of patients across Canada. Canadians are encouraged to donate blood and help alleviate the current shortage.