NEW VOLUNTARY 28-DAY DEFERRAL REQUEST IN RESPONSE TO 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS-PLEASE DONATE BLOOD TODAY!
VOLUNTARY 28-DAY DEFERRAL REQUEST IN RESPONSE TO 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS
New Voluntary 28-day Deferral Request in Response to Novel Coronavirus/ COVID-19
Blood Bank of Alaska (BBA) along with other blood banks across the United States is monitoring the evolving situation regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus, a new strain of viral respiratory infection, which began in Wuhan City, China.
BBA is absolutely committed to safety for therapeutic patients and donors and is watching the situation closely. Blood Donors who are 60 years of age or older should exercise awareness of the current health situation prior to going to social settings, use extreme caution and follow health guidelines from healthcare professionals. Older people and people of all ages with severe chronic medical conditions — like heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, for example — seem to be at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness.
All donors should exercise good hygiene and sanitation at all times. Wash hands often with soap and water, do not touch your face until such time as your hands have been washed in detail with soap and water for 20 seconds. Keep common surfaces sanitized.
As a precaution, Blood Bank of Alaska (BBA) is implementing the following voluntary measure request for our donors.
Beginning immediately, we are recommending a 28-day self-deferral period for donors who have within the last three (3) weeks:
- Traveled outside the state of Alaska or have come in contact with anyone having returned from travel outside of Alaska.
- BBA is actively monitoring the situation, via the CDC, Alaska Department of Health & Social Services, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. We will efficiently implement any necessary guidance’s as information becomes available.
Again, the above request is voluntary and is made as a precautionary step by BBA. Please DONATE BLOOD! Please WASH YOUR HANDS!!
Thank you for your patience.