At Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, your health and safety, along with the health and safety of our staff, are our top priorities. The Kraft Family Blood Donor Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women’s Hospital is continuing to accept blood and platelet donors in a safe and controlled environment.
Can I donate blood if I have tested positive for COVID-19?
You are eligible to donate after a COVID-19 diagnosis, as long as you are symptom-free, and it has been 20 days or more from your positive test.
Can I donate blood after I’ve received a COVID-19 vaccine or booster shot?
You are eligible to donate as long as you do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 and are feeling healthy and well.
What precautions are being taken at the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center to limit the spread of COVID-19?
The Kraft Center has always adhered to strict infection control procedures including wearing gloves, wiping down donor chairs, using sterile, single-use collection sets, and verifying the health of donors.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased infection control measures include:
- Staff are fully vaccinated, including a booster.
- Donors are given a mask to wear upon entering the Kraft Center or Blood Mobile and must complete a COVID-19 questionnaire.
- Stringent disinfecting is completed on all surfaces between each donor.
- Hand sanitizer is available for donor use throughout the donation process.
- Chairs in the waiting area and donation area are spaced to allow for physical distancing.
- Staff and donors who are not feeling well are asked to stay at home.
Can I get COVID-19 by donating blood?
According to the American Association of Blood Banks, individuals are not at risk of contracting COVID-19 through the blood donation process or via a blood transfusion. Respiratory viruses like COVID-19 are generally not known to be transmitted by blood donation or transfusion.
Why is it important to give blood at this time?
The United States is experiencing an unprecedented blood shortage. Hospitals are returning to normal operations, but donation rates have declined. Only about 3% of people who are eligible to donate actually donate.
All blood and platelets donated at the Kraft Center directly help patients at Dana-Farber and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
To schedule your appointment at the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center, call 617-632-3206 or email blooddonor@parters.org. Walk-ins are permitted as time allows. More information about blood and platelet donation can be found here.