Recently a relative of mine was given a blood transfusion but was'nt given any advice/information by staff about the increased risk she may now have of developing CJD/vCJD. This is what the Health protection Agency are advising to people who are in a similar position:
"DON'T DONATE BLOOD, NO-ONE WHO IS AT INCREASED RISK OF CJD OR WHO HAS RECEIVED BLOOD DONATED IN THE UNITED KINGDOM SINCE 1980 SHOULD DONATE BLOOD.
DON'T DONATE ORGANS OT TISSUE, INCLUDING BONE MARROW, SPERM, EGGS OR BREAST MILK.
IF YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE ANY MEDICAL, DENTAL OR SURGICAL PROCEDURES, TELL WHOEVER IS TREATING YOU BEFOREHAND SO THEY CAN MAKE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE INSTRUMENTS USED TO TREAT YOU.
YOU ARE ADVISED TO TELL YOUR FAMILY ABOUT YOUR RISK. YOUR FAMILY CAN TELL THE PEOPLE WHO ARE TREATING YOU ABOUT YOUR RISK OF CJD IF YOU NEED ANY MEDICAL OR SURGICAL PROCEDURES IN THE FUTURE AND ARE UNABLE TO TELL THEM YOURSELF"
last reviewed 16th July 2009
If all donated blood was tested before being given to patients then none of the above would be necessary, we would not have to be concerned. There are tests available check out Amorfix.com but not in use in the UK unfortunately where we have the highest rate of deaths from CJD/vCJD. I hope my relative never goes onto develop this deadly disease she only went into hospital for a gallbladder operation!!!!!