All blood donations in the UK are routinely tested for a range of potential infections, including Hepatitis B, C and E, and HIV. This means the likelihood of contracting an infection from a blood transfusion is extremely low.
Since 1985 all blood donated in the UK has been routinely tested for HIV and since September 1991 all blood donated in the UK has been routinely tested for Hepatitis C.
You can find out more information on the safety and screening of blood on the Blood Health National Oversight Group website or NHS Blood and Transplant website.
Click here to visit the Blood Health National Oversight Group website (opens in new tab)
Click here to visit the NHS Blood and Transplant website (opens in new tab)