The American Red Cross are inviting those who have spent time but never donated in the U.K., Ireland, or France due to concerns of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) to give blood and help save lives.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration have recently updated their blood donor eligibility guidelines. Eliminating the deferral of those who spent time in the three countries between 1980-2001.
Eric Horton, regional donor services executive for Idaho, Montana, & East Oregon had this to say, “For many years, the Red Cross has heard from people who have spent time in these countries — often members of the military and their families — hoping for an opportunity to donate blood.” Eric goes on to say, “We now welcome all donors who may have spent time in Europe and avoided blood donation as a result, to come join us in our lifesaving mission.”
For more information download the American Red Cross Blood Donor app, visit Red Cross Blood dot org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
