There has been a significant drop in blood donations with the arrival of the pandemic according to Canadian Blood Services.
Territory Manager for Oshawa and Durham Region Jennifer Mathieu says while walk-ins are not allowed due to physical distancing, they’re encouraging you to book, and bring along a family member or friend to donate as well.
“Right now, to help us meet the rising need for blood, we’re adding extra hours and extra appointment slots,” shared Mathieu. “We need over 380 donors each and every week to book appointments here in Oshawa.”
Mathieu say they’ve added more appointments to try and meet the need for blood as hospitals resume procedures that were put on hold for COVID-19.
She says they have implemented some enhanced cleaning and safety measures to ensure donor safety at every clinic.
“We have a wellness check point right when you walk in where we’re checking donors for their general good health, we’re taking their temperature, and you’ll notice that there’s physical distancing implemented right throughout the clinic, and everyone who does come in, needs to wear a mask,” said Mathieu.
She says all blood types are needed as every sixty seconds someone in Canada needs a blood donation.
To book an appointment, click here.
