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No. You cannot contract HIV or other viral disease by donating blood. Sterile procedures and disposable equipment are used in all donation centers in the United States. Sterile procedures ensure that the spread of diseases from the equipment used or from the person who draws the blood is avoided. Needles used to draw the blood are only used once on the person donating the blood. The needle is then discarded.
No. The Red Cross uses a needle only once and then disposes of it. Sterile procedures and disposable equipment are used in all Red Cross donor centers. You can’t get any bacterial or viral disease – including HIV from donating blood.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.