The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service (BTS) has established policy to ensure blood safety. BTS always reviews the blood donation arrangement for donors who returned from the areas with potential risks of infectious diseases. The spokesperson for BTS today (7 January) announced that, in response to the cluster of pneumonia cases detected in Wuhan, as a precautionary measure, members of public who have visited Wuhan should defer blood donation for 14 days from the date of departure.
      
     The spokesperson pointed out that, having considered cautiously and balanced the risk of blood safety, the Hospital Authority (BTS) Expert Panel on Blood and Blood Products Safety decided to revise the arrangement today. Expert Panel remains vigilant and works closely with relevant departments to monitor the latest development, and to timely review related measures. Meanwhile, all blood donors are reminded that if they develop the symptoms of fever, respiratory tract infection or pneumonia after blood donation, they should seek medical advice and inform the healthcare staff of BTS (During office hours: 2710 1201/ 2710 1243/2710 1298; Outside office hours: 2710 1210/2710 1234) as soon as possible.
      
     BTS would also like to invite members of public to give blood before travel abroad during the Chinese New Year holiday to maintain a stable blood supply for patients in need throughout the long holiday.

Ends/Tuesday, January 7, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:05

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