JPAC Joint United Kingdom (UK) Blood Transfusion and Tissue Transplantation Services Professional Advisory Committee

Herpes Simplex

IncludingGenital and oral herpes.
ObligatoryMust not donate if:
Fresh lesions.
Discretionarya) If lesions are healing (scabbing over) and there is no tingling, accept.

b) If the donor is not immunosuppressed but taking long term prophylaxis with oral antiviral agents, accept.
See if RelevantImmunosuppression

If there is a history of other sexually transmitted infections, see:
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Additional InformationThe herpes simplex viruses (HSV 1 and 2) can cause both cold sores and genital herpes. When the virus is actively multiplying it can cause tingling in the affected area and sores. There is a theoretical risk that the virus, or any secondary infection, could be passed on through transfusion. This is why donors with an active infection are not allowed to donate.
Reason for changeThis entry replaces the separate entries for 'Oral' and 'Genital' herpes.

A 'Discretionary' entry for oral prophylaxis with antivirals and 'Additional Information' have been added.
Donor InformationIf you wish to obtain more information regarding a personal medical issue please contact your National Help Line.

Please do not contact this web site for personal medical queries, as we are not in a position to provide individual answers.

Update Information

This entry was last updated in:
DSG-WB Edition 203, Release 01.