Blood Transfusions And Aids

The blood supply between 1978 and 1985 contained some units that were infected with HIV. Individuals who received blood during that time may not know that they could be infected. The risk is small but real.

On June 27, 1994, the Ontario Hospital Association launched a campaign to encourage individuals to get tested for HIV/AIDS if they received a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985. It is important that all be tested for HIV antibody so that, if infected, they may benefit from medical care and be counseled to reduce the risk of transmitting the disease.

Testing is recommended for anyone who thinks he/she may have received blood or blood products between 1978 and 1985, either as an inpatient or outpatient. Contact your family doctor or one of the Sexual Health Clinic Locations in Grey Bruce.

This information first appeared in the Fall 1994 issue of the Health Unit newsletter "HIV Happenings".