2019, Vol. 1, Issue 2, Part B

Preventive strategies for HBV infection include healthy blood transfusion services and vaccination against HBV. The agenda of every national blood program should be focused on the implementation of effective quality systems, as well as the development and implementation of quality standards, effective documentation systems, training of all staff and regular quality assessment to ensure that all donated blood is screened for transfusion-transmissible infections.

Globally, however, there are significant variations in the extent to which donated blood is screened, the screening strategies adopted and the overall quality and effectiveness of the blood screening process. As a result, in many countries, the recipients of blood and blood products remain at unacceptable risk of acquiring life-threatening infections that could easily be prevented. There is a need of a public awareness programs especially in rural areas and people at high risk to decrease the burden of HBV infection. Each country should establish voluntary blood donor programs which provide donor information and education.