Herpes Simplex

Genital and oral herpes.

Must not donate if:
Fresh lesions.

a) If lesions are healing (scabbing over) and there is no tingling, accept.

b) If the donor is not immunosuppressed but taking long term prophylaxis with oral antiviral agents, accept.

Immunosuppression

If there is a history of other sexually transmitted infections, see:
Sexually Transmitted Disease

The herpes simplex viruses (HSV 1 and 2) can cause both cold sores and genital herpes. When the virus is actively multiplying it can cause tingling in the affected area and sores. There is a theoretical risk that the virus, or any secondary infection, could be passed on through transfusion. This is why donors with an active infection are not allowed to donate.

There is no need to defer donors who have a sexual partner with Herpes.

This entry was revised to support the implementation of recommendations from the FAIR study; a clarification regarding sexual partners has been added.  

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