Canadian Blood Services donations increase in Kelowna, across the country | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
Subscribe

Would you like to subscribe to our newsletter?

Current Conditions Mostly Cloudy  3.7°C

Kamloops News

Canadian Blood Services donations increase in Kelowna, across the country

Image Credit: PEXELS

Following their nation-wide call for blood donors during the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadian Blood Services reports an increase in donations, including the Kelowna location.

"We did the shoutout on March 16, and since that time we have seen a notable difference in donations," said Gayle Voyer, Territory Manager for Kelowna. 

Although this is good news, it's imperative that these donations continue.

"This effort with COVID-19 is going to be a marathon, not a sprint," said Marcelo Dominguez, Canadian Blood Services representative. "We are urging donors to book appointments over the next few weeks.”

Given the current pandemic, blood donations are just as important than ever. 

"Because blood products have a limited shelf life, demand is constant," explained Dominguez.

Communities surrounding Kelowna will also have the opportunity to donate soon.

In Vernon, a mobile blood clinic will be set up at the Trinity United Church March 30, 31, April 1, 29, 30 and May 1.

In Penticton, the clinic will be at the Penticton Seniors' Drop-In Centre Society April 13, 14.

In Kamloops, the clinic will be at the Oasis Church April 20 to 22.

In West Kelowna, a clinic will be at Lakeview Heights Baptist Church May 4.

Due to the pandemic, Canadian Blood Services had reported a significant increase in cancellations in several cities. 

"[This] was worrying, particularly in light of the impacts that are already being reported by countries being affected by COVID-19," said Dominguez.

Donating blood is perfectly safe at this time, as clinics have implemented thorough screening measures for donors and social distancing measures. As a result, it is now mandatory to schedule an appointment when donating.  

"Whenever we get appointments, it helps us minimize the number of people at donor centres," said Dominguez. "Those appointments also allow people to complete a pre-screening questionnaire, so they can self-defer if necessary.”

To donate, you can book online, download the Canadian Blood Services app, or call 1 888 2 DONATE.


To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above. 

News from © iNFOnews, 2020
iNFOnews

  • Popular kelowna News
View Site in: Desktop | Mobile