IBTS to defer people travelling from areas affected by SARS virus

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will implement a deferral of potential donors returning from China, Hong Kong, Hanoi, Singapore and Toronto with effect from Monday 28th April.

Acting CEO Andy Kelly said today (Friday) that potential donors if they were well would be deferred for two weeks after they leave these areas. "If a donor is unwell or was unwell during the 14 days since leaving the above areas and SARS is suspected, that donor will be deferred for a minimum of 28 days after complete recovery and completion of treatment.

"We will also defer for 14 days from anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has SARS or who is suspected of having SARS. These are precautionary measures and are in line with WHO and FDA guidelines. We will be keeping this deferral policy under review," said Mr Kelly.