Blood Shortage Worsens in Morocco as COVID-19 Fears Deter Donors

This shortage is explained by the precautionary measures adopted to curb the spread of the new coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19). The fear of contamination and the significant increase in positive cases are deterring citizens, even regular donors of this act of generosity, from going to these centers, which are in great need of blood.

All over the country, especially in the economic capital, demand is high. Stocks have reached critical levels. No age group is spared: young, less young, men and women are waiting their turn at the Regional Blood Transfusion Center.

And since no donor, no blood, there is a worrying drop in strategic blood stocks. The legitimate fear of a shortage can be read on the faces of doctors, nurses and administrators. This situation is not justified, laments Dr. Hind Zajli, a manager at the Casablanca CRST, in the sense that the center scrupulously ensures compliance with the safety measures imposed by the Ministry of Health, including the wearing of masks, social distancing and regular hand washing with soap, sterilization and the use of disposable equipment, the doctor reassures in a statement to the MAP.

In order to remedy this worrying situation, the CRTS management has set up mobile blood donation units at Place Maréchal in Sidi Othmane, in the El-Hank and Hay Hassani neighborhoods, as well as in the commune of Dar Bouazza, to encourage Casablancans to act generously. Don’t hesitate, you will save lives.