Key facts
- Grifols has paused plasma collections in Canada.
- Two donors have died.
- Health Canada has launched an investigation into Grifols' practices.
- Grifols operates Canada's only private plasma donation clinics.
- The company cited "unfounded attention" as a reason for the pause.
- Grifols wants to work with regulators.
Grifols, a Spanish healthcare company that manages Canada's only private plasma donation clinics, has suspended all plasma collection activities. This decision follows the deaths of two donors, prompting an investigation by Health Canada into the company's practices. Grifols has stated that the pause is intended to address "unfounded attention" surrounding the events and to allow for constructive engagement with regulatory bodies. The company asserts its commitment to the safety of its donors and adherence to all regulatory requirements. The investigation by Health Canada will examine the circumstances surrounding the donor deaths and Grifols' operational procedures. The company operates the sole private network for plasma collection in Canada, making this suspension a significant development in the country's plasma supply chain. Grifols aims to resolve the issues raised and resume operations once regulatory concerns are addressed and confidence in its safety protocols is re-established.