COVID-19: A message from the New Zealand Blood Service

By Good Magazine

March 30, 2020

Every day, 80 New Zealanders need blood or blood products. There is no alternative for patients in need of blood or blood products – blood donors save lives.

Blood donation is an essential service, and the New Zealand Blood Service is encouraging eligible New Zealanders to continue dating blood. Be assured, travelling to a donor centre or mobile drive is considered essential travel!

Dr Sarah Morley, Chief Medical Officer of New Zealand Blood Service, says “donating blood is a lifesaving act that must continue during these uncertain times”.

The New Zealand Blood Service is taking all necessary steps to ensure that their donor centres are safe places to visit. They also have a dedicated working group of experts who are closely monitoring COVID-19 developments and advising on any specific actions required.

Measures include providing adequate space at sites to allow donors to maintain an appropriate physical distance, robust hygiene, and making sure that donors are not exposed to anyone unwell.

Importantly, there is also no evidence that COVID-19 is transmissible by blood transfusion. Any person who has had COVID-19 must wait four weeks after they are free from all symptoms before they can give blood.

You can book an appointment to donate by visiting www.nzblood.co.nz or calling 0800 448 325.

Sign up to our email newsletters for your weekly dose of good

More Articles You Might Like

Subscribe now to good magazine from just $30

Subscribe now to good magazine from just $30

Newsletter Sign Up