Donating blood is a selfless act that can save lives. However, travel, especially to certain regions, can sometimes affect your eligibility to donate. This article addresses the common question: “Can I Travel After Donating Blood?” and provides comprehensive information regarding travel-related restrictions and blood donation guidelines.
The American Red Cross, along with other blood collection organizations, assesses potential donors based on their travel history to minimize the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, such as malaria, through blood transfusions.
If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed during the donation process. To expedite this process, it’s helpful to come prepared with your travel details. You can download a travel form from the Red Cross website to assist in the assessment of your travel history. You can also call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your specific travel plans.
Travel History Questions for Blood Donors
If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada, you will likely be asked the following questions:
- What countries did you visit?
- Where did you travel while in this country?
- Did you leave the city or resort at any time? If yes, where did you go?
- What mode of transportation did you use?
- How long did you stay?
- What date did you return to the U.S.?
Malaria and Blood Donation Eligibility
Malaria is a primary concern related to travel and blood donation. It is transmitted through mosquito bites in specific countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusions. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires the Red Cross and other blood collection organizations to inquire about travel to or residence in malaria-risk countries, as well as any history of malaria infection.
While the FDA doesn’t currently mandate malaria testing for all blood donations, it approved the first test of its kind in March 2024 that can screen blood donations for malaria. The Red Cross is committed to maintaining the safety of the blood supply and is collaborating with industry partners and the FDA to evaluate current eligibility guidelines regarding malaria, the newly approved test, and other potential tests awaiting approval.
Alt: Close-up of a mosquito, highlighting the risk of malaria transmission associated with mosquito bites.
Waiting Periods After Travel to Malaria-Risk Areas
If you have traveled to or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood. The length of the waiting period depends on your specific circumstances:
- Treatment for Malaria: Wait 3 years after completing treatment for malaria.
- Travel to Malaria-Risk Area: Wait 3 months after returning from a trip to an area where malaria is found.
- Living in Malaria-Risk Country: Wait 3 years after living more than 5 years in a country or countries where malaria is found. An additional waiting period of 3 years is required if you have traveled to an area where malaria is found if you have not lived a consecutive 3 years in a country or countries where malaria is not found.
Other Ways to Support the Red Cross
If you are unable to donate blood due to travel restrictions, there are other ways to contribute to the Red Cross’s mission.
Consider volunteering your time to support various Red Cross initiatives. You can also host a blood drive through the Red Cross to encourage others to donate.
Alt: A Red Cross volunteer assisting a blood donor at a blood drive, highlighting alternative ways to support the organization’s mission.
You can also help people facing emergencies by making a financial donation to support the Red Cross’s greatest needs. Your gift enables the Red Cross to ensure an ongoing blood supply, provide humanitarian support to families in need, and prepare communities by teaching lifesaving skills.
While travel can impact your ability to donate blood, understanding the guidelines and waiting periods can help you plan accordingly. If you have questions or concerns about your eligibility, contact the Red Cross directly for personalized guidance. Your support, in any form, can make a difference in saving lives.
