Your blood is still needed by SANBS amid Covid-19 pandemic
SANBS urges the community to continue donating blood.
The Germiston Blood Donor Centre, situated at Lambton Court Shopping Centre, is still open to accept blood donations amid the coronavirus pandemic.
People who are healthy are still encouraged to donate blood at their nearest blood donor centre.
More stringent hygiene measures have been put in place with the Germiston centre having enough alcohol wipes to clean equipment and enough alcohol hand rubs for both donors and staff.
Before donors enter the centre they will be screened for international visits and flu symptoms so they can be deferred before they enter the centre.
SANBS said that it has noted an influx of visits to its donor centres and several claims on social media about the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) providing testing for the coronavirus (Covid-19).
“We wish to state unequivocally that the SANBS does not conduct testing for coronavirus at our donor centres.
“Diagnostic tests for Covid-19 are not done on blood, but on throat swabs and sputum samples,” said Dr Jackie Thomson, medical director of SANBS.
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Testing is currently available at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) for free.
You can also get tested at Lancet Laboratories and at some National Health Laboratories Services (NHLS).
The SANBS urges donors to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their fellow citizens.
If you are feeling unwell or exhibiting any clinical symptoms of infection (fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat and shortness of breath), you are encouraged to delay your donation until you are in good health.
If you feel you are at risk, have come into contact with someone who has been infected or fear that you may have been infected with Covid-19, speak to your physician for advice.
Alternatively, contact the toll-free NICD hotline on 0800 029 999 or 0800 111 132.
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