Blood Donation Now Open to Canadians Living with MS

Canadian Blood Services has made a change to their blood donation eligibility to be inclusive of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS Canada sees this as a positive step toward more equitable access in Canada’s healthcare system. This change comes as a result of our work with Canadian Blood Services and MS clinicians to broaden eligibility. 

Canadians living with MS are now eligible to donate blood, plasma, and platelets—as long as they’re feeling well and not taking certain medications that affect donation eligibility. 

This change by Canadian Blood Services removes a long-standing barrier and recognizes the strength and generosity of people living with MS who want to give back and help save lives. 

For years, people living with MS were unable to donate blood, plasma, or platelets. With this recent eligibility change, we celebrate this progress and the opportunity it brings for more people to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Canadians. 

For full eligibility details, read Canadian Blood Services ABCs of eligibility to donating blood.