Lifeblood statement: Zika virus

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood currently defers donors who have travelled to countries with mosquito borne viruses that are a transfusion-transmission risk, such as dengue and malaria.

As a result, all countries affected by Zika outbreaks are already covered by temporary travel deferrals in Australia.

With these deferrals already in place, the risk of transfusion-transmission is considered to be extremely low.

Our team of blood safety experts will continue to monitor the countries impacted and will make any adjustments to our temporary deferrals as required.

The Lifeblood is also involved in a number of research projects focussed on Zika virus and blood transfusion safety.

For more information about the Zika virus please visit: https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/ohp-zikavirus

For more information about blood donation or to see if you are eligible to donate please call 13 14 95.