HIV-reactive cases found in donated blood in Jhapa over five years

Jhapa, May 9: HIV infection (reactive) has been detected in the blood of 29 donors in Jhapa over the past five fiscal years, according to the Nepal Red Cross Society.

The cases were identified during routine screening at blood transfusion service centres operated by the Nepal Red Cross Society Jhapa branch in Bhadrapur, Birtamod and Damak. All donated blood is tested for infectious diseases, including HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and syphilis, before being supplied to patients.

According to Shishir Dahal, in charge of the Bhadrapur blood transfusion centre, one donor tested HIV-reactive in fiscal year 2078/79, followed by two cases in 2079/80, six in 2080/81, 14 in 2081/82 and six in 2082/83. He said reactive samples are referred for further testing and counselling for confirmation.

The Red Cross said more than 17,000 units of safe blood are supplied annually to hospitals in Jhapa. The district has over 5,000 voluntary blood donors, but blood shortages are often reported during the monsoon season and peak farming periods due to reduced donation campaigns.

Health officials said the rising number of patients with cancer, kidney disease, anaemia, and other conditions has further increased the demand for blood. They stressed that strict screening before and after donation is essential to ensure a safe blood supply.