Publications

Transfusions

The AIDS virus was discovered in 1984, three years after the first AIDS cases in the United States. In 1985, we got a test that could check the blood for traces of the virus, called “antibody.” This test is used to check the blood supply for AIDS infection. Today, all blood for transfusions is checked for AIDS virus antibody (as well as for many other diseases). There is essentially no chance that a

person could get an AIDS infection from bad blood. To be extra sure, some people who need an operation will donate their own blood and the hospital will keep it for them in case they should need a transfusion.

Some people worry about giving blood at a blood drive because they are afraid of getting AIDS. There is absolutely nothing to worry about. Whenever a person donates blood, a brand new, sterile needle and container are used. You can watch the nurse open the sealed packages for the needle and the container. There is absolutely no chance whatever of getting AIDS by donating blood.

Print Version