Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service tightens blood donation rules: 1-Year deferral for those detained over 72 hours

The Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service has implemented new donor eligibility criteria, requiring individuals who have been detained in correctional facilities for more than 72 consecutive hours within the past year to wait 12 months before donating blood.

The policy change, effective since May 27, aligns with international blood safety standards, it said.

The updated requirements appear in the "Health Questionnaire and Infection Risk Assessment" section of the donor registration form, specifically under the “HIV, hepatitis B and C risk assessment.”

A new question now directly asks potential donors about any institutional detention lasting 72 hours or longer in the previous 12 months.

In response to inquiries, the Blood Transfusion Service explained that the amendment follows recommendations from an internationally recognized blood service accreditation body that conducted an operational review last year.

After consulting with expert panels, the center implemented the changes to further enhance blood safety and minimize transfusion risks for patients.

The service said the revision mirrors similar guidelines adopted by blood services worldwide, emphasizing their commitment to the "zero-risk blood" mission through regular reviews of donor criteria.

The center also maintains that all eligibility requirements comply with international standards set by professional blood service organizations.