Friday, March 20, 2026
ADVT 
National

Health Canada reviewing two deaths of plasma donors in Winnipeg, says no link so far

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 12 Mar, 2026 10:43 AM
  • Health Canada reviewing two deaths of plasma donors in Winnipeg, says no link so far

Health Canada is investigating the deaths of two people in recent months who donated plasma at private collection centres in Winnipeg.

It says the deaths happened in October and January following plasma donations at two locations run by Grifols, a company that pays donors.

The story was first reported by CBC, which said one of the donors died when her heart stopped while giving plasma.

Health Canada says the investigation is ongoing and no link has been established between the donation process and the two deaths.

Grifols says, based on information so far, it has no reason to believe there was a correlation between the deaths and plasma donation.

The company says it followed protocols in both cases and is conducting its own review in addition to supporting the government investigation.

"Every donor undergoes an extensive health history evaluation and physical examination before being deemed eligible to donate," the company said in a written statement this week.

"We strive to operate under strict operational procedures at the highest standard."

Picture Courtesy: AP Photo/Juan Karita, FILE

MORE National ARTICLES

Carney to discuss major projects, conservation with Coastal First Nations on Tuesday

Carney to discuss major projects, conservation with Coastal First Nations on Tuesday
Prime Minister Mark Carney will meet with Coastal First Nations on Tuesday to discuss major projects and marine conservation.

Carney to discuss major projects, conservation with Coastal First Nations on Tuesday

Heavy rain in B.C.'s south coast triggers flood warning on Vancouver Island

Heavy rain in B.C.'s south coast triggers flood warning on Vancouver Island
Part of Vancouver Island has been put under a flood warning as heavy rain from an atmospheric river system swells rivers across British Columbia's south coast.

Heavy rain in B.C.'s south coast triggers flood warning on Vancouver Island

Carney to travel to Qatar next week alongside trips to China, Switzerland

Carney to travel to Qatar next week alongside trips to China, Switzerland
Prime Minister Mark Carney will travel to Doha, Qatar on Jan. 18 for a bilateral visit as he seeks to broaden trade relations and drum up foreign investment.

Carney to travel to Qatar next week alongside trips to China, Switzerland

Eurasia Group says no country more at risk than Canada in relations with the U.S.

Eurasia Group says no country more at risk than Canada in relations with the U.S.
A new report by the Eurasia Group is warning no other country will be as "profoundly affected" by political turmoil in the United States than Canada will be in 2026.

Eurasia Group says no country more at risk than Canada in relations with the U.S.

Vancouver building donated to become youth mental health and substance use clinic

Vancouver building donated to become youth mental health and substance use clinic
Young clients of the Foundry organization currently receive its youth mental health and substance use care in a cramped space above an MMA gym, where thin walls mean noise can sometimes interrupt programming.

Vancouver building donated to become youth mental health and substance use clinic

Conservative MP accuses students of free speech attack after campus event cancelled

Conservative MP accuses students of free speech attack after campus event cancelled
Conservative MP Garnett Genuis accused a student group at York University of attacking free speech after he was denied permission to hold an event there — but the university's student centre said politics had nothing to do with its decision.

Conservative MP accuses students of free speech attack after campus event cancelled