According to the BBC, there are some alarming figures, “At least 2,234 Indians have contracted HIV while receiving blood transfusions in hospitals in the past 17 months alone, say officials.”
The story goes on to say, “Under law, it is mandatory for hospitals to screen donors and the donated blood for HIV, hepatitis B and C, malaria and other infections.”
It quotes information activist Chetan Kothari as adding that: “Each such test costs 1,200 rupees ($18; £12) and most hospitals in India do not have the testing facilities.”
These are shocking figures. Our Medical Director, Dr Steve Taylor, says: “If you have had a blood transfusion in the Indian subcontinent we would encourage you to get tested for HIV – because life saving treatments are available. These are simple blood tests which can be done at your GP or Sexual Health clinics.”
You can also receive tests direct to your home. For a limited time, Saving Lives will provide free HIV postal kits available to individuals who have had a transfusion in India in the last 10 years but who have never tested before and are currently living in the UK. Simply log on to website www.takeAtestuk.com to access the free voucher code, IN0616.
