Donating blood after jaundice (hepatitis A)

Not right now, but most waits are short. After jaundice from hepatitis A, donation waits, commonly 12 months after complete recovery, with normal counts. ## The short answer Liver infection viruses can remain infectious after the yellow fades; a year’s wait protects recipients. This is for the common food/water hepatitis A of childhood. Jaundice from other causes (malaria, gallstones, hepatitis B) has its own rules, tell the centre which one you had. ## The usual wait Commonly 12 months after full recovery from hepatitis A. 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: The cause of your jaundice if known, and your recovery date. 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.