Memorial Blood Centers today outlined steps the organization is taking to stay prepared for the spread of the H1N1 virus and to ensure a safe experience for blood donors and an ample blood supply for our communities.
"As the H1N1 virus continues to spread, Memorial Blood Centers is taking every precaution to mitigate the potential impact of the pandemic on our staff, the generous volunteers who donate blood, and the patients in need who receive their life-saving gift," Jed Gorlin, MD, Medical Director and Vice President of Memorial Blood Centers, said. "In our own workplace, donor centers, and at community-sponsored blood drive sites, we strictly adhere to the latest infection control guidelines issued by leading health authorities. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, prevention tips for donors and staff, and important information to address concerns regarding blood donation and the flu are all readily available."
Memorial Blood Centers urges all blood donors to be informed, take everyday actions to stay healthy, be alert to H1N1 flu symptoms, and continue to give the gift of life.
- Blood donation and H1N1 virus are not related. H1N1 is an airborne virus and not spread by blood transfusion. Blood donors who are healthy and well are encouraged to continue to donate.
- Blood is the ultimate renewable resource: the body replaces fluids within hours and red blood cells within three weeks.
- There is no risk to donors of contracting an infectious disease through the donation process.
- To ensure the safety of the blood supply, 14 tests are performed on each unit of donated blood -- 11 testing for infectious diseases. While there is no test for screening blood donors for the flu, blood transfusion is not a significant risk for acquiring the infection.
"Making a blood donation does not weaken the body or make it more susceptible to the flu," Dr. Gorlin advises. "In fact, there should be no effects -- either positive or negative -- on the ability to handle an infectious viral illness either before or after donating blood. Our bodies fight off the flu with a particular kind of white cell -- called lymphocyte -- which predominately lives in the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, etc. And less than 1% of our lymphocytes are removed with a blood collection."
Memorial Blood Centers continues to monitor the H1N1 situation closely and to work with the Hennepin County Preparedness task force, Minnesota Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control, and its hospital partners, regularly updating policies and procedures to ensure the health and well-being of staff, donors, and blood recipients alike.