when i donate blood what do they test for

What drugs do they test for when donating blood?

At each donation, the following mandatory tests are performed: Hepatitis B – HBsAg Human immunodeficiency virus – anti-HIV 1 and 2 and HIV NAT (nucleic acid testing) Hepatitis C – anti-HCV and HCV NAT Human T-cell lymphotropic virus – anti-HTLV I …

What types of tests are performed on donated blood?

What do they test for donating blood? After you have donated, your blood will be tested for syphilis, HIV (the virus that causes AIDS), hepatitis, and HTLV (human T-lymphotropic virus), which can cause a blood or nerve disease. What would disqualify you from donating a liver? You cannot be a liver donor if you: Are under age 18 or over age 60.

What really happens to our donated blood?

Jan 25, 2021 · After donation, the blood is tested for several infectious agents. All tests must be negative before the blood is suitable for transfusion. In …

What conditions disqualify you from donating blood?

Blood testing - After donation, the Blood is tested for such blood-borne agents as HIV, hepatitis and syphilis. (see details below) Free Cord Blood Registry and Cord Blood Bank. Blood Donor lists - Blood collection establishments must keep current a list of deferred Blood donors and check Blood donor names against that list.

What is the phone number to call if you give blood?

If you have given blood and become unwell (except for a cold or coldsore) in the two weeks following your donation, ring our donor helpline as soon as possible on 0300 123 23 23.

What does it mean when you have a positive CMV test?

We may test for antibodies against the virus. A positive test indicates that the individual has had CMV infection and may still have the virus. Having antibodies to CMV is of no significance to the health of the donor.

What is the cause of syphilis?

Syphilis is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This family of bacteria can also cause tropical diseases called Yaws and Pinta. Syphilis is usually a sexually transmitted infection which, if untreated, can cause serious disease. Yaws and Pinta cause skin and joint problems.

How does HIV affect the immune system?

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), if untreated,affects the immune system with the development of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The HIV virus is transmitted sexually, can be passed from mother to baby, and by intravenous drug use. Once an individual becomes infected with HIV, the virus remains in the body.

Where is the virus most commonly found?

These diseases are very rare. The infection is found most commonly in people from Japan, the West Indies and parts of the Middle East. The virus is commonly transmitted from mother to child by breast feeding, but is also passed on by sexual contact or by intravenous drug use.

What is the cause of liver damage?

Hepatitis B virus (HBV)is one of several viruses that can cause inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), and sometimes liver damage. Hepatitis B is very common in many parts of the world where it is often transmitted from mother to child at birth or in infancy.

Can antibodies protect against HIV?

If either or both of the tests are reactive, further tests are done to confirm the result. Like HIV, the antibodies produced do not protect against the virus. Many of the donors we identify have had the virus for years and feel completely well. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) can infect both animals and humans.

Why do people donate blood?

There are also potential benefits for people who regularly donate blood: Lower iron levels in blood. This is a plus if your iron levels are too high. Donating blood removes some red blood cells, which carry iron throughout your body. Better cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

How long does it take to donate blood?

Donation. Refreshments. While the whole process, from the time you get to the facility to the time you leave, can take about an hour, the actual donation itself may take as little as 8-10 minutes.

How long after blood donation can you drink?

There aren’t any lasting side effects, but you may temporarily: Need to hydrate. Drink more non-alcoholic beverages for 24-48 hours after you donate blood.

Can you donate blood to a tattoo?

Tattoos, in most states, aren’t a barrier to giving blood, provided that the tattoo artist followed good safety practices (like using sterile needles and not reusing ink). A few states may require a waiting period between when you get a tattoo and when you donate blood, but in general, it’s not an issue. 3. Donation.

About Blood Donations

Donating blood is important — life-saving blood transfusions are used at hospitals every day in our country. According to the CDC, 13.2 million blood donors in the U.S. give enough blood to equal 17.2 million transfusions each year.

Restrictions for Donating Blood if you Have an STD

There are varying timelines for when you can or cannot donate blood with STDs. When in doubt, reach out to your local blood bank and ask for their specific guidelines.

Symptoms of STDs

STDs may be transmitted through any form of sexual activity, including oral, anal, and vaginal intercourse or genitals touching. Some STDs don’t have physical symptoms, and others do. Some are easy to treat, and others are a lifelong health condition.#N#‌

Preventing STDs

Condoms can help prevent the transmission of some STDs. However, no method is 100% effective aside from abstaining from sex. If you think you have an STD, stop all sexual contact and talk to your doctor immediately so you can receive treatment.