Donating blood after chickenpox

Not right now, but most waits are short. After chickenpox, wait until every scab has fallen and you are fully strong, commonly a few weeks more before donating. ## The short answer The virus is present in active lesions and your body is recovering; complete healing first. Once skin is clear and energy is back, donation resumes normally. ## The usual wait Commonly until full healing plus a short recovery period, the centre counts from when the last scab fell. Nobody is turned away forever for most of these, the register will still be here when the wait ends. ## At the screening desk Tell the staff: When the rash started and when the last scab fell. That conversation is confidential and takes a minute, it exists so the medical officer can clear you safely on the day. Everyone meets the same basics: age 18,65, weight 50 kg+, haemoglobin on target, feeling well today. Men donate every 3 months, women every 4, the rest rules, simply. Not sure about your case? Try the Can I donate? checker or read who can donate and the deferral list in plain words. Still weighing it? Is blood donation safe? and the honest side-effects list are straight answers, not brochure talk. ## The one line that matters The medical officer at the centre makes the final call on the day, with your name, your file and your actual reading in front of them. Use this page to walk in informed, not to overrule anyone.