Paid plasma donation may be prohibited in Manitoba as the province’s health minister announced considering a ban following two fatal adverse incidents at Winnipeg collection centers reported to Health Canada. The fatalities occurred within four months of each other in October of last year and January 30, 2026, as uncovered by a CBC investigation.
Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara stated on Wednesday that public safety remains the primary concern, thus banning paid plasma in Manitoba is being deliberated. Health Canada is currently reviewing the deaths, with no established link between the fatalities and plasma collection identified so far. Grifols, the operator of the Winnipeg centers, expressed no indication of a connection between the deaths.
Plasma, a protein-rich substance used to treat various medical conditions such as bleeding disorders, liver diseases, and cancer, is collected at Grifols’ plasma donation centers in Canada. The Spanish-based company has over a dozen plasma collection facilities across the country and has been operating in Winnipeg since 2022 after acquiring Canadian Plasma Resources.
While the deaths are under investigation, Minister Asagwara emphasized that no actions will be taken until Health Canada completes its review. The deceased individuals include Rodiyat Alabede, who passed away on October 25 while donating plasma at the Taylor Avenue location. The details of the second deceased person, who had a fatal adverse reaction at the Innovation Drive location on January 30, remain limited.
Both federal health authorities and Grifols declined to disclose further information citing privacy considerations. Grifols expressed sadness over the loss of the donors, highlighting their commitment to donor health and safety through thorough health evaluations before donation eligibility.
The regulation of establishments collecting plasma falls under Health Canada’s oversight, requiring reporting of any serious donor reactions during or after donation. While only Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec have laws banning paid plasma clinics, Manitoba contemplates joining them to ensure public safety while maintaining access to essential plasma treatments.
Canadian Blood Services, responsible for managing the national blood supply, acknowledged the increasing demand for plasma and the insufficient local supply to meet the country’s needs. Minister Asagwara emphasized the importance of plasma access for all Canadians while reiterating the need to prioritize safety in Manitoba.
The ongoing discussion around paid plasma donation centers and their impact on public health underscores the delicate balance between meeting medical needs and ensuring donor safety in the healthcare system.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/minister-manitoba-plasma-ban-9.7125058)