Canadian Blood Services is once again in 鈥渋mmediate need鈥� of blood donors.

In a news release issued Wednesday, CBS said there are thousands of blood donation appointments to fill across Canada between now and Jan. 4.

Due to statutory holidays, several days of collection opportunities were lost.

The CBS said the need for platelets is pressing and ongoing in order to treat patients with serious blood disorders or those undergoing cancer treatments.

Platelets are a vital blood component with a shelf-life of just seven days.

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鈥淭he holiday period is a challenging time to collect blood. Every donation counts and new and returning donors are especially needed right now to book and keep blood donation appointments heading into the New Year,鈥� said CBS chief supply chain officer Rick Prinzen.

鈥淲e have seen the dedication of donors throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and we need that to continue. Patients鈥� lives depend on them.鈥�

While all blood types are needed, CBS highlighted O-negative blood as being critical for hospitals because it鈥檚 the only type of blood compatible with all other types.

鈥淲hen seconds count, someone鈥檚 life is on the line, and there鈥檚 no time to check blood type, hospital patients in an emergency can all receive O-negative blood,鈥� the release notes.

To book or change a blood donation appointment, locate a donor centre, or check eligibility to donate, visit blood.ca

鈥淭here is a lot of uncertainty during a pandemic, but there are always patients in need of blood and blood products,鈥� said Prinzen.

鈥淲ith the exception of any temporary COVID-19 related suspensions of donor centre operations, we will remain open to ensure essential products and services are available for patients. We are calling on new and returning donors to book an appointment now, heading into January.鈥�

aaron.hinks@peacearchnews.com
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