In
2002, there were at least 23 confirmed cases of West Nile Virus (WNV)
infection in the U.S. from transfusions and an estimated 500
donations by infected donors who did not have symptoms of infection.
In 2003, blood collection facilities began screening donated blood
using nucleic acid amplification tests (NATs); confirmed positive
units are discarded.
Hundreds of donors whose donated blood tests positive when screened
for the presence of West Nile Virus are identified each year in the
United States. These donors are followed up by the blood agency to
confirm their infection with additional tests and by the local
health departments to see if they later go on to develop symptoms of
WNV infection.
Licensed blood collection agencies in California have been requested
to report any donors who test positive to the local health
department. If you have been diagnosed with or develop symptoms
compatible with West Nile Fever or West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease
(see
www.ochealthinfo.com/epi/wnv/) and you donated blood in the
14 days before your illness began
please
tell your doctor and notify your blood collection agency
immediately. Physicians and laboratories should report West Nile
Virus infection within one working day by phone to 714-834-8180 or
by fax to 714-834-8196.
For more information on West Nile Virus infection and blood or organ
donation, see
www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/qa/transfusion.htm.
