Donating blood after malaria

Not right now, but most waits are short. After treated malaria, donation waits, commonly 12 months after completing treatment, longer for some types. ## The short answer Malaria parasites can persist in blood after symptoms end, and transfusion-transmitted malaria is dangerous, so the wait is one of the longer ones. Carry your treatment record; the centre may ask which parasite (vivax/falciparum) since waits can differ. ## The usual wait Commonly 12 months after completing treatment, some centres and parasite types extend this. 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: Bring the treatment card or prescription with dates. 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.