Should donor blood be screened for hepatitis E?

Conclusion This study estimated the prevalence of hepatitis E virus in blood donors and found a higher than expected figure of around one infection in every 2,848 donors. They found the infection was passed to the recipient of the blood in some cases, but this did not cause significant illness and recipients were able to clear the virus from their bodies naturally in most cases. This study, which coincides with World Hepatitis Day, increases our awareness that the prevalence of hepatitis E in England might be higher than previously assumed. A second issue stemming from the study is whether, given the higher than expected prevalence, it is necessary to screen donated blood for hepatitis E to prevent infections – something that is not currently done. Although most infections are mild and heal themselves, there is the potential for far more serious effects if infected donations are given to immunocompromised people or pregnant women. The BBC interviewed Professor Richard Tedder of Public Health England, who said there was no immediate need to screen donated blood. This view was not shared by Professor Jean-Michel Pawlotsky of the Université Paris-Est, who said this stance was "surprising" and that he believed "systematic screening of blood components for markers of hepatitis E infection should be implemented". Another practical consideration is that screening for hepatitis E costs money that could be spent on other health areas. Would spending mon...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medical practice Source Type: news