Transmissible Infection by Blood Transfusion

Blood transfusions can transmit a range of diseases or infections from the donor to the recipient.
The most significant are blood-borne diseases, including HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), HBV (Hepatitis B Virus), HCV (Hepatitis C Virus), and a number of parasitic infections.
HIV destroys the body’s immune system, making it difficult to fight off infections and diseases. It can be transmitted through blood or other body fluids.
Hepatitis B and C both affect the liver. They can cause chronic liver disease and, in some cases, liver cancer. Like HIV, they’re also transmitted through blood and other body fluids.
Parasitic infections, such as malaria and Chagas disease, can also be transmitted through blood transfusions. They’re caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through insect bites.
To minimize the risk of transmitting diseases through blood transfusions, potential blood donors are screened for these diseases and other risk factors. This includes asking about their medical history and lifestyle, and testing their blood.
Even with thorough screening, there is still a small risk of transmitting diseases through blood transfusions. This is because some diseases cannot be detected in the early stages of infection.
Post-transfusion reactions can be immediate or delayed. Immediate reactions are within 24 hours of the transfusion, and delayed reactions happen days or even weeks later.
Symptoms of post-transfusion reactions include fever, chills, rash, back or chest pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
If a blood transfusion recipient becomes ill after a transfusion, it’s important that they seek medical attention as soon as possible. Tests can determine if the illness is related to the transfusion or to a different cause.
Treatments for these infections vary and can include anti-viral and anti-parasitic medications, immune system boosters, and in severe cases, organ transplants.
Continued research aims to further improve blood screening techniques and to develop new treatments for blood-borne diseases.