Canadian Blood Services is making the plea for blood donations this holiday season as flu season begins and blood donor cancellation rates jump significantly across the country.

A new national survey shows that while six out of ten eligible donors asked believe donating blood or plasma over the holidays is important, only one in ten plans to book an appointment before New Year’s Eve.

The results of the Ipsos survey is especially worrisome says the agency as the national inventory of several blood types is far below normal.

Meanwhile, respiratory illnesses now in circulation are making it more difficult to staff donor centres and donation events and for donors to keep their appointments.

The fear is that winter storms could further affect collections. More than 25,000 open appointments must be filled across the country by December 31.

O-negative—or universal—blood donors are especially needed because their blood products can be used by any patient.

Canadian Blood Services is asking eligible donors to roll up their sleeves and give the gift of life by calling 1-888-2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).