No decision yet been made on the use of Prion Filtration Technology to screen for vCJD

[Beaaware]

Not sure where to put this info but thought some of you might like to know the latest developments regarding the P-Capt filter, had it confirmed by the DOH that no decision has been made on the use of prion filtration technology to screen blood for Human BSE (vCJD also known as Prion disease). This is disappointing as it means that we continue to be put at risk of vCJD through blood transfusions. Prion technology has been around for a few years now and is ready for use, it is just one step forward to prevent transmission of human bse via blood. Another effective method is the latest blood test which is currently being trialled using 5000 blood samples from the USA. Lets hope the DOH take the right steps to protect our health from vCJD and introduce the filter & new blood test before any more innocent people are infected.

I have also been in contact with the DH and was informed that SaBTO will be 'considering the issue of prion risk management issues in relation to blood at their next meeting on 9 March'. It is possible that prion reduction filter and the importation of Fresh Frozen Plasma will be considered at the meeting.

It seems that NHSBT has provided for partial implementation of the filter and imported FFP in its strategy for 2011-2014, conditional on DH giving its approval.

Even if SaBTO maintains the recommendation it made in October 2009, it is not clear whether DH will follow SaBTO's advice. The final decision will be political and likely depend on revised risk estimates and cost/benefit ratios.

We really do need the new blood test that has been developed by Sir John Collinge to screen all individuals for vCJD (Prion disease), although the filter will help it will not stop the spread of vCJD, nor will it determine how many of us are actually carrying the disease and have the ability to pass it on without ever developing the disease. Unless an individual blood test is introduced we will never know the true numbers of people infected in the UK. We would not have to import frozen plasma if we had an individual blood test.
azul1, do you have any details as to where and what time the SABTO meeting is I would like to attend, please pm me.