Why can't you give blood if you've had a transfusion?
Question
In 1996, I had a blood transfusion and to return the favour and save someone else’s life, I wanted to give blood. But they would not allow my blood as I’d had a transfusion within the last 25 years. Why not?
Justin, Watford
Answer
** Definitive **
Name: Heather, Edgware
Qualification: I’m a phlebotomist – I take blood tests for a living
Answer: It’s because the checks of the bloods have changed. In bygone days, the checks on those giving birth weren’t especially thorough, so we can’t be sure what was in the blood they were given. Nowadays, the checks are very thorough.
** Definitive **
Name: Julian, Kennington
Qualification: I’m a builder!
Answer: It’s because of CJD. Blood never used to be tested for that, so they can’t take the risk and allow you to give blood.