Canadian health authorities have opened an investigation into the deaths of two people, including a Nigerian international student, after plasma donations at private collection centres in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Plasma is the liquid portion of blood and makes up slightly more than half of its overall volume.
Health Canada disclosed that it received two reports of fatal adverse reactions involving plasma donors, one in October 2025 and another on January 30, 2026.
Both incidents were linked to clinics operated by Grifols, a Spanish healthcare company that manages several plasma collection facilities across Canada.
One of the deceased was Rodiyat Alabede, a 22-year-old Nigerian student who died on October 25 after donating plasma at the Grifols Plasma Donation Centre on Taylor Avenue.
Alabede moved from Nigeria to Winnipeg in 2022 to study at the University of Winnipeg.
A friend of the student, Mary Ann Chika, said she was later called to identify Alabede’s body at the hospital after doctors confirmed her death.
According to her, hospital staff provided only limited information but told her that Alabede’s heart stopped during the plasma donation procedure at the centre.
Health Canada said the second fatal adverse reaction was reported on January 30 following a donation at Grifols’ Innovation Drive facility in Winnipeg. Authorities did not release the identity of the second donor who died.
The agency noted that it has not yet determined whether the plasma donations were directly linked to the deaths and that investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
It added that inspectors were sent to the facilities after the reports were received.
Plasma donation is performed in a process similar to blood donation. During the procedure, blood is drawn from the donor, the plasma, a pale yellow fluid containing antibodies, is separated, and the remaining red blood cells are returned to the donor’s body.
The procedure is generally considered safe.
Plasma contains immunoglobulins that help boost the immune system and clotting factors that help control bleeding. These components are used in the treatment of infections, bleeding disorders, and liver diseases.
Despite its safety record, donors are warned that some side effects may occur, including fatigue, dehydration, dizziness, bruising, and fainting.
Grifols, which has operated in Winnipeg since 2022 after acquiring Canadian Plasma Resources, expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased.
In a statement, the company said based on available information, “we have no reason to believe that there is a correlation between the donors’ passing and plasma donation”.
The firm also explained that potential donors must undergo a detailed review of their medical history as well as a physical examination before they are cleared to donate.
At the centres, donors can receive honorarium payments of up to $100 per donation, with additional incentives offered to individuals who donate regularly.
Under Canadian regulations, plasma collection centres are required to notify Health Canada of any serious reaction experienced by a donor during the procedure or within 72 hours after a donation.
