Cord blood collection resumes in Vancouver

August 19, 2020 (VANCOUVER)  – Aligned with the public health decision to ease COVID-19 restrictions in most parts of British Columbia, and in consultation with clinicians as hospitals gradually return to normal operations, Canadian Blood Services resumed cord blood collection in Vancouver on Monday, August 17, 2020.

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, Canadian Blood Services’ Cord Blood Bank temporarily suspended cord blood collections at its four collection hospitals in Ottawa, Brampton, Edmonton and Vancouver. The suspension was guided by the recommendations from the Public Health Agency of Canada and the increasing hospital restrictions to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Cord blood collections already resumed in Brampton (GTA) in June, and in July collections resumed in Edmonton and Ottawa.

Mothers who have registered to donate their babies’ cord blood at The BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre in Vancouver will be able to do so from Monday to Friday during the day and evenings.

We recognize and understand there may be concerns about the health and safety of mothers because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To maximize donor safety throughout the cord blood collection process, our partner hospitals have put appropriate physical distancing measures in place and will be taking every precaution, including the use of personal protective equipment. We are committed to ensuring mothers have a safe and rewarding donor experience.

For more information, visit blood.ca/donatecord.