Canadian Blood Services says it’s safe to donate blood during the COVID-19 crisis.
Donations are critical for patients undergoing surgery and cancer treatment, and for those following traumas such as motor vehicle accidents.
CBS is concerned by a recent spike in appointment cancellations in several cities due to the pandemic. The public is reminded that demand is constant because blood products have a limited shelf life.
“To ensure we can continue to meet the needs of Canadian patients, we need everyone who is eligible and healthy to continue to book and honour their appointments to donate blood,” said Marcelo Dominguez, CBS communications officer. “In addition to other measures, we have implemented new steps to comply with the Public Health Agency of Canada’s directive on physical distancing. In keeping, at this time we can only welcome people with appointments.”
Comox Valley clinics in May are fully booked, but appointments are open for June.
Donation events will be held June 16-18 from 2-6:45 p.m. at the K’ómoks First Nation Band Hall, 3320 Comox Rd. in Courtenay.
Book an appointment by calling 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283), at blood.ca or through the GiveBlood app.