Blood cells lack the binding sites required by COVID-19. Diagnostic tests for COVID-19 are not done on blood but throat swabs and sputum samples,” says Dr Jackie Thomson, medical director of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS). “At the SANBS, we are closely following guidelines issued by the NICD, which promote healthy personal hygiene practices – both in our offices and at our fixed and mobile donor centres. We encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of fellow citizens. If you are feeling unwell or exhibiting any clinical symptoms of infection (fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat or shortness of breath), you are encouraged to delay donation until you are in good health.”
Precautionary measures to ensure the safety of blood and blood products
* people who have travelled to affected countries outside of South Africa will be deferred for 21 days,
* people with confirmed cases of Coronavirus infection will be deferred for 28 days from the date that they are completely free of symptoms,
* people who have been in close contact with confirmed or probable Coronavirus cases will be deferred for 21 days from the last date of contact.
Donor centres remain operational across the country.
“The situation with the outbreak is still developing and we will keep you informed on all issues affecting you,” says the SANBS.
About the SANBS
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is an independent non-profit organisation, and one of the leaders in the discipline of blood transfusion. SANBS operates in eight out of nine provinces in South Africa (except for the Western Cape, which is serviced by the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service). Blood is processed into its constituent components – red blood cells, plasma and platelets. Therefore, in principle, a single blood donation can save a minimum of three lives.
