HIV found in blood of 29 donors in Jhapa over five years

In Jhapa, the Nepal Red Cross Society’s branch has found HIV infections in the blood of 29 donors over the past five fiscal years during tests conducted at its blood transfusion service center.

To ensure a safe blood supply, the Society operates blood transfusion service centers in Bhadrapur, Birtamod, and Damak. The mandatory laboratory tests for infectious diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and syphilis before transfusing collected blood to patients revealed these findings.

According to Shishir Dahal, in charge of the Bhadrapur blood transfusion service center, HIV-positive blood was detected in one donor in fiscal year 2078/79, two donors in 2079/80, six donors in 2080/81, 14 donors in 2081/82, and six donors in 2082/83. The highest number of HIV-positive cases, 14, was recorded in 2081/82. When HIV-positive blood is detected, the center recommends further testing and counseling for confirmation.

Through its blood transfusion service center, the Nepal Red Cross Society supplies over 17,000 units of safe blood annually to hospitals in Jhapa. The district has more than 5,000 volunteer blood donors.

During the monsoon season, blood donation programs are not conducted, and as it coincides with the farming season, there is a shortage of blood in the district. The increasing number of patients with cancer, kidney issues, anemia, and other conditions has also led to a rising demand for blood.

The Red Cross states that tests conducted before and after blood donation play a crucial role in preventing potential infections from being transmitted to patients.