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| - Last Updated on May 14, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A Facebook post claims that Japan will ban blood donation after COVID vaccination. Our fact check revealed that this claim is false.
The Claim
According to a social media post, the Japanese government has proposed to ban COVID-19 vaccinated people from donating their blood. Because it is “tainted blood.” This is in reference to an article published on The People’s Voice website.
Fact Check
Did Japan ban COVID vaccinated people from donating blood?
No, Japan has not banned COVID-19 vaccinated people from donating blood. Blood donation after COVID vaccination is still allowed in Japan and everywhere else. Nobody should believe otherwise. We found no evidence to support the claim. The Facebook post cites an article from The People’s Voice. This is an infamous website which is known to spread misinformation and flashy clickbait articles. Here is a screenshot of the article:
We could not find any recent news suggesting such a ban. We also searched on Google with ‘Japan COVID news’ and couldn’t find anything to substantiate this. As of the latest available information, there has been no official statement or credible evidence to support this claim. Blood donation policies are guided by health and safety protocols to ensure the quality and safety of the blood supply. There may be temporary deferrals for people who have recently received certain vaccines or medications. But, these measures are generally based on scientific evidence.
There were certain limitations placed on blood collection post-COVID-19 vaccination that were deemed internationally and scientifically appropriate. These limitations include waiting periods of 48 hours following vaccination with mRNA vaccines, six weeks after virus vector vaccines, and 24 hours after recombinant protein vaccines. They are implemented to maintain the integrity of the donation process. It’s important to verify information with reliable sources like healthcare professionals. Also, one should refrain from spreading misinformation that could lead to confusion or undue concern.
What does the source article say?
Talking about the article on the website, the primary claim lacks substantiation from any of the sources referenced in the article. Specifically, the article cites a preprint paper titled “Concerns regarding Transfusions of Blood Products Derived from Genetic Vaccine Recipients and Proposals for Specific Measures”. It’s important to note that a preprint indicates that the paper has not undergone peer review or been published in a scientific or medical journal. Upon further research, the content of the paper fails to provide evidence in support of the stated claim. In fact, the paper does not advocate for the implementation of such a prohibition.
Contrarily, the authors argue that the effects of the vaccines on blood products ‘remain unknown at this time’. Additionally, the paper advocates for the suspension of the vaccination program until a complete assessment of the risks and benefits concerning the impact on blood products can be conducted. Hence, nobody has asserted that blood donation after COVID vaccination is prohibited or not recommended.
Can one donate blood after COVID vaccination?
Yes, anyone can go for blood donation after COVID vaccination. However, there are specific criteria to adhere to before donating blood after vaccination. According to the FDA’s eligibility guidelines, in most cases, one can donate blood after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. It’s just that the person need to meet certain requirements. To be eligible, one must be able to disclose the name of the vaccine manufacturer. Accepted manufacturers include Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Novavax, and Pfizer. Additionally, one must not be having any symptoms of COVID-19 and should be feeling well at the time of donation. If you are unsure of the vaccine’s manufacturer, a two-week waiting period is necessary before donating blood.
What did the Indian government say about blood donation after COVID vaccination?
The National Blood Transfusion Council (NBTC) in India recently updated its guidelines for blood donor deferral periods after COVID-19 vaccination. Initially, donors were deferred for 28 days after vaccination, but this has now been reduced to 14 days after each dose. This change aims to address blood supply shortages exacerbated by factors like reduced donation drives and fear of gatherings. With the government making vaccines available to everyone above 18, donors are encouraged to give blood before vaccination to help maintain an adequate blood supply during the pandemic. (This is in reference with a published paper in May 2021.)
Who can donate blood?
Blood donation guidelines are in place to safeguard the health of donors and recipients. It also ensures the quality and safety of the donated blood. These guidelines generally include eligibility criteria, health assessments, and procedural standards. Eligibility guidelines comprise of these factors:
- Age: Donors should be generally between 18 and 65 years old. However, some countries may permit 16–17 year-olds to donate with proper consent and meeting physical criteria. In certain regions, regular donors over 65 may be accepted at the discretion of the responsible physician.
- Weight: Donors usually need to weigh at least 50 kg. Nonetheless, in some countries, donors should weigh at least 45 kg for whole blood donations.
- Health: Donors must be in good health at the time of donation. Ineligibility applies if experiencing conditions like cold, flu, sore throat, etc. There is a temporary deferral after recent tattoo or body piercing, dental procedures, or illness. Minimum haemoglobin levels are required for donation. Generally, it should not be less than 12.0 g/dl for females and 13.0 g/dl for males.
- Travel: There is a temporary deferral for travel to areas with mosquito-borne infections or vCJD risk. Policies vary by country for travel history and residence.
- Behaviours: Ineligibility applies to individuals engaging in “at risk” sexual activity within the past 12 months. There is a permanent deferral for individuals with a positive HIV test or history of recreational drug injection.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is a temporary deferral following pregnancy, lasting as many months as the duration of the pregnancy. It is not recommended to donate blood while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding comes with a deferral period lasting at least 9 months post-childbirth and until 3 months after significant weaning.
It’s essential to note that eligibility criteria may vary by country and regional blood donation guidelines.
What should I do before donating blood?
Donating blood is a lifesaving act which contributes to saving and improving the lives of those in need. Hence, blood donation after COVID vaccination is not something to be afraid of. Before you head out to donate blood, consider these helpful tips:
- Hydrate adequately: Drinking plenty of water before your donation can make it easier for the phlebotomist (a healthcare professional who draws blood from your body) to locate your veins. It also reduces the risk of feeling lightheaded afterward.
- Eat a nutritious meal: Make sure to have a well-rounded breakfast and be open to accepting any snacks provided at the donation centre. This can enhance your ability to handle the donation process and sustain your energy levels for the rest of the day.
- Time your exercise: If you’re planning to exercise on the day of your donation, do so before your appointment, not afterward. Exercising post-donation could increase the risk of dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Consider iron supplements: Especially for frequent blood donors or teenagers, taking iron supplements or a multivitamin containing iron can help prevent iron deficiency. This recommendation, endorsed by organisations like the American Red Cross, aims to support overall donor health and well-being.
- Sleep: Proper 7 to 9 hours of sleep is recommended for feeling more alert and well rested.
We have debunked a claim regarding the Japanese government declaring an emergency over the explosion of mRNA cancer. We also did a fact check story on Japanese government banning the COVID vaccine. Several other COVID-19 fact checks: Does burnt orange help regain smell and taste after COVID-19? Is COVID-19 vaccine responsible for death of O. J. Simpson? Was COVID handling by the Government of India a huge scam?
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