Can't give blood for one year after visiting Panama!

Just went in to give blood and found out that we cannot give for one year because we were in Panama in March. We were told that the threat of Maleria is why. Just a heads up because we are frequent givers and this was a shock:(.

Wierd! Is this your local hospital rule, State rule, some generalized policy? Wish some medical folks would weigh in. [i did hear a rumor that those of us who live in Panama couldn't give blood after visiting the US ... something about the risk of something called "blue/red disease."] Regards, Richard

BTW -Malaria is not a problem in 99% of Panama, just like West Nile disease isn't a problem in most of the US.

It looks like Panama and the Canal Zone are not on the “can’t donate” list, but there are a few other areas that are. Here is the Red Cross’ position on the area:

Panama City and Canal Zone area is acceptable.

Travel to rural areas of the provinces of Bocas del Toro, San Blas including San Blas Islands, Veraguas and Darien provinces – Not eligible (to donate blood) for 12 months.

It looks like Panama and the Canal Zone are not on the “can’t donate” list, but there are a few other areas that are. Here is the Red Cross’ position on the area:

 

Panama City and Canal Zone area is acceptable.

 

Travel to rural areas of the provinces of Bocas del Toro, San Blas including San Blas Islands, Veraguas and Darien provinces – Not eligible (to donate blood) for 12 months.

None of the places mentioned are places where typical cruise ship tourists would visit. Note "rural areas" are specified versus typical populated areas. Come to Panama and enjoy! Go back home, give blood and help another! Regards, Richard

Last year we went to Belize and I could not donate blood for one year. We are doing a Panama Canal cruise this year. I am fairly sure this will not impede my blood donation for another year. I hope not, as I donate several times each year.

Wierd! Is this your local hospital rule, State rule, some generalized policy? Wish some medical folks would weigh in. [i did hear a rumor that those of us who live in Panama couldn't give blood after visiting the US ... something about the risk of something called "blue/red disease."] Regards, Richard

 

BTW -Malaria is not a problem in 99% of Panama, just like West Nile disease isn't a problem in most of the US.

Sounds like an "Ex Pat" Disease :D Too funny, Richard. Keep the water in Lake Gatun, sir, and send those ships to Florida! CHEERS!