Two plasma donors die at private Canadian clinics under federal investigation

The Guardian - World NewsEN 6 min read 100% complete by Leyland Cecco in TorontoMarch 12, 2026 at 04:24 PM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

Two plasma donors died at private Grifols clinics in Canada in October 2025 and January 2026, prompting a federal investigation by Health Canada. The agency is looking into potential lapses in record-keeping, donor screening, and machine maintenance at the clinics. The deaths occurred in Winnipeg, where the donors went into distress during the plasma donation process. While Grifols denies any correlation between the deaths and plasma donation, Health Canada is continuing its investigation. Plasma is used to create medications, and Canada has faced criticism over the increasing role of private companies like Grifols in plasma collection. One of the deceased donors was identified as Rodiyat Alabede, a 22-year-old international student.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

CBC News 40% Canadian Blood Service 50% Winnipeg ×260% Rodiyat Alabede 70% Grifols ×380% Canada ×480% Health Canada ×590%

Keywords

plasma donation 100% fatal adverse reactions 90% health canada 80% grifols 70% clinic investigation 60% blood products 60% donor safety 50% canadian blood service 40% winnipeg 40%