Indian blood donor selection guidelines: Review in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Public Health
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted global blood donation drives and blood collection.
• This disruption has led to a widening gap between blood supply and transfusion demand.
• Seasonal challenges like monsoon and dengue outbreaks further increase the demand for blood components, especially platelets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze current blood donor selection criteria in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To propose revisions to donor selection criteria to address current challenges and ensure blood supply continuity.
• To suggest optimized blood collection strategies, including reduced blood volumes, for improved recipient benefit and pandemic preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Review and critical analysis of existing national blood donor selection guidelines.
• Comparative analysis of donor deferral criteria in the context of pandemic-related disruptions.
• Literature review on the impact of COVID-19 on blood donation systems worldwide.

Main Results:

• Current blood donor selection criteria require revision to accommodate unprecedented circumstances like pandemics.
• Specific areas needing review include pre-donation hemoglobin levels, screening for sexually transmitted diseases, and deferral criteria for lactation and pregnancy.
• Collecting smaller blood volumes per donation is proposed as a beneficial strategy.

Conclusions:

• Revising blood donor selection criteria is crucial for maintaining an adequate blood supply during health crises.
• Implementing updated guidelines can enhance the safety and efficiency of blood transfusion services.
• Adopting strategies like reduced blood volume collection contributes to recipient well-being and future pandemic preparedness.