Prevention strategies of transfusion‐transmitted parasitic infections (TTPIs) in Iran, an endemic area for malaria, toxoplasmosis and leishmaniasis

Abstract

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesParasitic infections are one of the most important adverse reactions of blood transfusion. Several strategies are being implemented in blood transfusion centers of the world to prevent the transfusion‐transmitted parasitic infections (TTPIs). The objective of this work was to clarify and describe the strategies to minimize the transmission risk of endemic parasitic agents in Iran via blood transfusion.Materials and MethodsThis study was conducted in the Iranian blood transfusion organization (IBTO). The data were extracted from the latest version of the “medical interview” standard operating procedure (SOP) and then recorded in the prepared sheets.ResultsThe donor selection is the first and only step to reduce the risk of TTPIs in endemic and non‐endemic areas of Iran. In all blood transfusion centers of the IBTO, the blood donation volunteers with a previous history of malaria, Chagas disease, visceral leishmaniasis (VL), muco‐cutaneous leishmaniasis and babesiosis, as well as those with toxoplasmosis, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and with a history of residence in, or travel to, malaria‐endemic areas are permanently or temporarily deferred from the blood donation.ConclusionFor some reasons, including the prevalence of malaria, toxoplasmosis and VL in parts of Iran, the donor selection strategy is not sufficient to prevent the TTPIs. Therefore, the changing of donor selection process and the use of other common preventive strategies are recommended to reduce the risk of TTPIs, especially for high‐risk groups of toxoplasmosis and VL.