Can COVID-19 Infected People Donate Blood?

No, individuals who have any illness or infection cannot donate blood. However, once you have fully recovered from a COVID-19 infection, you are eligible to donate blood.

Current Guidelines and Regulations

Is it safe to donate blood while suffering from coronavirus symptoms, or have you tested positive for the virus? The answer is generally no. According to the NHSBT NHS Blood and Transplant guidelines, individuals who are unwell with a virus should not donate blood.

General Eligibility Criteria

The blood donation process includes a series of eligibility questions. You should only consider donating if you meet all the criteria and are in good health. Getting a COVID infection may prompt these questions. If you have had a recent infection, it is not advisable to donate blood until at least 3 months after recovery.

Specific Guidelines for Recent Infections

For individuals who have had a confirmed COVID-19 infection, the recommended wait time before donating blood is 28 days post-recovery. The recovery period must be complete, meaning you have no ongoing symptoms or complications. If you have been exposed to the virus or have traveled to an area with high community transmission, it is advisable to defer blood donation for at least 28 days.

What About Plasma Donation?

Interestingly, the plasma of recovered COVID-19 patients can be highly beneficial. Plasma from recovered patients has been shown to contain antibodies that can help treat severe cases of the virus. Thus, it is encouraged for recovered individuals to donate plasma, especially as it can potentially save lives.

Safety Protocols for Blood Donors

It's crucial to adhere to safety protocols to ensure a secure blood donation process. Here are some key points:

Appointments and Social Distancing

Preferred Appointments: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment to minimize potential risks and wait times. Walk-ins will be accommodated based on availability, but appointments can help better manage donor flow and maintain social distancing.

Face Masks and Other Safety Measures

Mask Requirement: Facial coverings are mandatory for all donors, visitors, and staff. This helps in reducing the spread of viruses and ensures everyone's safety.

Health History Questionnaire: Complete your health history questionnaire in advance to avoid long lines and confusion during your appointment.

Temperature Checks

Donors and visitors will undergo a temperature check upon entry. The building staff also measures their temperatures daily to ensure a safe environment.

Additional Screening Protocols

The blood center may have additional screening measures in place to protect donors and staff. These include:

Self-quarantine restrictions or recent positive diagnosis Exposure to the virus in the last 14 days High fever or other symptomatic signs

Follow these guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of others during the donation process.

Conclusion

While it is not advisable to donate blood immediately after a COVID-19 infection, once you have fully recovered, you can contribute to the community by donating blood. The process is safe, and following the guidelines ensures both your well-being and the availability of blood for those in need.