Testing of donated blood
The first step in reducing the risk of transmission of infectious diseases through blood is to select voluntary non-remunerated donors from low-risk populations who give blood on a regular basis as these individuals are at a lower risk of transmitting transfusion-transmissible infections than are family/replacement donors, or paid donors. However, even with the most careful selection, some donors may be seropositive for HIV or other infectious agents. Therefore, rigorous screening of all donated blood is required to ensure the safety of the blood supply.
The donated blood should also be tested for ABO and RhD to ensure the safety and compatibility of the transfusion for the patient.
WHO encourages and supports countries, through provision of advice and training, in the development and implementation of these activities in accordance with their needs.
WHO publications
Multiple barriers to the safety and availability of blood components for transfusion were identified in the 2015 Global Database on Blood Safety, many...
Action framework to advance universal access to safe, effective and quality-assured blood products 2020–2023
In response to calls for action, WHO has provided guidelines, physical standards, training and technical support to improve blood product quality, safety...
Strategic framework for blood safety and availability
Blood transfusion is an essential component of health care that contributes to saving lives and improving the quality of life for millions of people worldwide....
This document is designed primarily to support the strengthening and improvement of blood screening programmes in countries where systems are not yet...
Meeting reports
Related links