Why is HIV infection from blood transfusion a concern?

Twelve million blood donations are made every year in the United States. If you need a blood transfusion and are given donated blood that contains the HIV virus, you can become infected with HIV.

Blood donations are all tested for several known viruses that can be transmitted by donated blood. HIV is one of the viruses tested for. When tests find a virus in donated blood, the blood is discarded and the donor is notified. The donor is advised to see his or her health care provider and asked not to donate blood.

Unfortunately, if a donor became infected just 2 weeks before a donation, the HIV virus cannot be detected in his or her blood. This means there is always the slight chance that a blood transfusion will accidentally infect a person receiving blood.

What are the chances of being infected with HIV from a blood transfusion?

The chances of a blood donation having undetectable HIV is about 1 in 500,000. The chance of getting HIV in donated blood is lower now than in past years because of improved lab tests. Potential donors are also screened more carefully.

How can I prevent infection from transfusion?

If you are planning a to have an operation, you may be able to donate your own blood before your surgery. Your blood can then be used if you need blood during or after surgery. There is an added cost for this because of the extra processing involved, but it is a sure way to avoid infection. Ask your health care provider about this possibility.