Zika infection through blood donation uncommon, says expert
According to Brazilian regulations, people who have had Zika, dengue or chikungunya must wait at least 30 days of symptom disappearance before giving blood. 
With at least one reported case of Zika infection through blood transfusion in Brazil, the Brazilian Hematology, Hemotherapy and Cell Therapy Association (ABHH) says this type of infection is very uncommon. According to Brazilian regulations, people who have had Zika, dengue or chikungunya must wait at least 30 days of symptom disappearance before giving blood.
“The most effective way to prevent transmission and ensure blood safety is to combat transmitting mosquitoes,” said the chair of ABHH, Dimas Covas. According to him, laboratory tests for Zika diagnosis are not suitable for screening potential blood donors. Still, he understands the appropriate guidelines to ensure blood safety for recipients are covered by Brazilian standards.
The ABHH reports about four million blood transfusions take place annually in the country, with a maximum four dengue or chikungunya infection events recorded. According to Covas, this is no different with Zika. The three viruses are transmitted by the same vector—Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
In Brazil, every potential blood donor must undergo clinical assessment prior to donation. This is when they report if they have had infection symptoms. If yes, they are temporarily ruled out for donation. The Ministry of Health advises blood centers to ask donors to inform if they experience any such symptoms as fever or diarrhea within seven days of donation.
Translated by Mayra Borges
Fonte: Zika infection through blood donation uncommon, says expert
