H1N1 Influenza: Information For Donors

Main Category: Swine Flu
Also Included In: Flu / Cold / SARS;  Public Health;  Transplants / Organ Donations
Article Date: 15 Jun 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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No Additional Risk

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a global Influenza A(H1N1) pandemic now that 74 countries have officially reported over 30,000 cases of Influenza A(H1N1) infection. A pandemic has been declared because of the virus' geographical spread. It does not reflect an increase in the severity of the illness.

Safety of the blood supply is the number one priority of Canadian Blood Services. At the present time, there is no additional risk to the blood supply requiring extra donor screening measures.

There have been no reported cases of transfusion-transmission of respiratory viruses such as influenza to date. These viruses are usually spread by droplets through the respiratory route or by direct contact.

It is very important, however that Canadian Blood Services is able to maintain the blood supply for patients who require transfusion.

Advice For Donors

If you have recently visited Mexico and have a cold, or are otherwise feeling unwell, please wait two weeks before coming to a clinic to donate. For further health information, please consult your physician.

Canadian Blood Services Is Prepared

Canadian Blood Services is continuing to closely monitor the situation and will provide updated information as necessary. We are working closely with national and international public health authorities. Canadians should rest assured that we have a comprehensive emergency plans that can be implemented rapidly and effectively if the need should arise.

Canadian Blood Services' activities to date are consistent with other blood agencies and what they are doing. Our plan positions us well to react to the changing situation and safeguard the security of the blood supply.

For info about human swine flu or pandemic influenza, visit: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca

Source
Canadian Blood Services