TORONTO -- Canadian Blood Services says there has been a 鈥渨orrying鈥 spike in cancellations of appointments to donate blood amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Monday, the non-profit charity which is responsible for the national blood system outside of Quebec, made a public plea to donors asking them to book and keep appointments. The organization said there is a constant need for blood, stem cells, plasma, and organ and tissue donors.

鈥淧atients depend on these lifesaving donations,鈥 Dr. Isra Levy, Canadian Blood Services鈥 vice-president of medical affairs and innovation, said in a press release. 鈥淓very day they are needed for patients undergoing surgery and cancer treatment, as well as to save lives following traumas such as motor vehicle accidents.鈥

While the organization said their current inventory of blood is 鈥渟trong,鈥 that can quickly change.

鈥淭he recent increase in cancellations is worrying, particularly in light of the blood shortages already being reported in other countries affected by COVID-19,鈥 the press release said.

Canadian Blood Services also attempted to reassure donors by detailing the extra measures they鈥檙e taking to protect against the new coronavirus.

鈥淒onating blood in Canada continues to be safe. Our robust cleaning and infection-control practices protect all donors, staff and volunteers,鈥 the charity said. 鈥淎ll prospective donors are also carefully screened for any symptoms of illness, including very mild ones.鈥

What鈥檚 more, the organization said potential donors are screened when they book their appointment and when they arrive at the donor centre. Those who exhibit symptoms at either of these times are barred from donating blood and visiting the centre.

鈥淥ur donor centres are islands of wellness within Canada鈥檚 health system,鈥 Levy said. 鈥淭hey are not places where sick people gather.鈥

Canadian Blood Services said they鈥檙e adhering to the latest guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada regarding public gatherings during the pandemic.

鈥淪hould the agency鈥檚 recommendations change we will act immediately to keep donors safe,鈥 the organization said.