West Nile Virus
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a flavivirus, similar to Dengue, which causes a wide spectrum of infection. This may range from no or minimal symptoms to death. It is geographically widespread. Recently there has been a significant outbreak in Greece and Romania. In recent years North Eastern Italy in the provincial districts of Ferrara, Rovigo, Mantua, Modena, Bologna and Reggio Emilia (an area north of Rimini and east of Parma) have also been affected. It has also reached epidemic proportions in North America in recent years. There it has caused illness and death post transfusion and post transplantation of tissues and organs. It is spread by mosquitoes and so is more prevalent at times of the year when mosquitoes are active.
Donors who have visited a WNV endemic area may donate blood four weeks after their return, as long as they have had neither symptoms nor evidence of infection. If the donor was diagnosed with WNV, or had a history of symptoms suggestive of WNV, whilst in the endemic area or following their return then they must wait 6 months before donating.
A Position Statement on West Nile Virus (WNV) is available in the Document Library of www.transfusionguidelines.org.
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Alternatively we can call you Minicom 0845 730 0106
