On 20th May, the inquiry report was published into the infected blood scandal. You can find more here: NHS England publication of the infected blood inquiry final report
Information about support for people who may have been affected by infected blood is available here: support for people who may have been affected by infected blood NHS
Here is a brief summary of the important information:
- If you had a blood transfusion or blood products before 1996, there’s a chance you may have been given infected blood. This could mean you were infected with hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV.
- Today, all blood donated in the UK is screened using very rigorous safety standards and testing to protect both donors and patients.
- Since screening was introduced, the risk of getting an infection from a blood transfusion or blood products is very low.
NHS blood and transplant have more information about the infected blood inquiry - If you had a blood transfusion or blood products before 1996 and you’ve not been tested for infection you can get a free home test for hepatitis C.
If you think you may be at an increased risk of Hepatitis C or HIV, you can go to any sexual health clinic (an appointment is usually needed) to discuss this further and receive any tests needed.
You can also arrange for a free home testing kit for Hepatitis C here:
If eligible, you can also arrange for a free home testing kit for HIV here:
Please contact the practice should you require any further support.