Canadian Blood Services says it is facing a shortage after blood donations drop significantly over the past several weeks. Multiple outlets report the organization is issuing a call for more donors to help replenish supplies used by hospitals.
Global News reports that, over the last six weeks, donation appointments have fallen short by about 1,500 to 2,500 per week. It also says the current shortfall is not keeping pace with hospital demand. Global News characterizes the decline as steeper than the typical summer slump.
City News Toronto similarly reports that blood donations have plummeted in recent weeks and that the supply situation is creating pressure to meet patient needs.
The Winnipeg Free Press also states that Canadian Blood Services is calling for donors amid what it describes as a serious drop in supply. Together, the reports indicate the shortage is driven by reduced appointment volumes and that the organization is working to close the gap between available blood products and ongoing demand.
