Since 1991 all donated blood and blood products have been screened in the UK and are therefore considered safe. In other countries, especially developing countries, blood screening is often not commonplace. Therefore, if you need a blood transfusion or surgery while abroad on holiday, there is a chance that you may receive contaminated blood.
If you are HIV-positive, you must not donate blood or carry an organ donor card.
developing countries, blood screening is often not commonplace. Therefore, if you need a blood transfusion or surgery while abroad on holiday, there is a chance that you may receive contaminated blood. 