The nonprofit invites people to make appointments to donate blood or keep current appointments.
Continuing threats of winter storms and disease could further impact collections
says the organization in a press release, and its stockpiles of blood products remain well below their optimal level
.
The situation worries the organization, as bad weather conditions can cause increased trauma, which increases the demand for blood
.
National supplies of blood products have dropped more than 35% since October, leaving the organization with three to four day supply for different blood types
.
Canadian Blood Services says it will operate as normal this week and into the new year and is inviting people, especially new donors, to drop by its centers.
We are able to turn the tables and need donors to fill all open appointments
she said.
Canadian Blood Services especially urges people with type O negative blood to donate blood, as this blood type is universal and can therefore be used for any patient.
According to the organization, the shortcomings have been exacerbated since sharp drop
the number of regular donors during the pandemic.
Patient needs are still being met by the lowest number of donors in a decade, but this situation is unsustainable
reads a press release from the organization.
With information from CBC
