Do you get tested for STDs when you donate blood?

Answer 1

Current FDA and /or AABB guidelines require that every volunteer blood donation (allogeneic and autologous) be screened for the following:

ABO, Rh Typing

Unexpected antibody screen (immunohematologic antibodies)

Hepatitis B surface antigen

Hepatitis B core antibodies

Hepatitis C antibodies

Serologic test for Syphilis

HIV-I/II antibodies

Human T-cell lymphotrophic virus antibodies

HIV-I Nucleic Acid Test (PCR)

HCV Nucleic Acid Test (PCR)

West Nile Virus Nucleic Acid Test (PCR)

Bacterial Screening of Platelet components

Additional tests may be preformed at the discretion of the collection facility, such as Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Antibody screening, Hepatitis B Nucleic Acid Testing (PCR) and T. Cruzi antibodies (Chagas' Disease).

If any test is repeat reactive, it must be further tested using a licensed confirmatory test, if one exists. FDA guidelines also require that all blood collection facilities notify the donor of any unexpected screening test results within eight weeks of donation. However, most will notify within 4 weeks, usually by USPS 1st Class mail (or certified/restricted delivery if specified).

Please do not donate blood for STD screening. Free, anonymous testing is generally available at community health clinics. All prospective donors are asked if they are donating for testing results. The safety of the blood supply relies heavily on the the honesty of the donor during the medical history review.