Can I donate blood if I have an infection?
What this means
- With an active infection, you should wait until it has resolved.
- If you are taking antibiotics for it, finish the course and feel well first.
- Minor, healed issues are usually fine once you feel healthy.
What to do next
Complete treatment, recover fully, then book a donation.
When to call the center: Call the center to confirm timing for your specific infection and treatment.
If you need to wait
Wait until the infection has cleared and any antibiotic course is finished.
Exact timing is confirmed by the center. Set a reminder so you do not have to track it.
Set a return reminderWhy this rule exists
Centers wait so they do not collect blood while your body is fighting an infection.
This is general educational guidance, not a final eligibility decision. Donation centers make final eligibility decisions during confidential screening. Rules may vary by center, donation type, location, and current policy.
Were you already turned away for this reason? See the comeback plan
Find a place to donate
Search by city, ZIP, state, or center name, or use your location to see the closest centers.
Related questions
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Read the full pledgeSources and review
The guidance on this page reflects published criteria from these organizations. Eligibility and procedures vary by center and country, so confirm specifics with your donation center.
- American Red Cross
- AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Blood Donation
- Canadian Blood Services
- Last reviewed:
- Next review due:
- Reviewed by:
- Reviewed against American Red Cross, AABB, and U.S. FDA donor guidance
- Confidence:
- High confidence