How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:49:38 -0400

I try to give back to the people of this nation as I am able. I used to donate blood regularly; but because I was stationed in Germany in the early 1980's when some beef in military mess halls came from cows with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) [Mad Cow] I can no longer donate blood because we have become infected with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD); "Mad Cow Disease." I learned recently that people with HIV can now donate blood - per conversation with Red Cross POC, efforts were funded to come up with a way that HIV positive people can donate blood. That saddened me and made me mad. Bovine spongiform can only be tested through autopsy right now. Many of those of us who served in Europe during the latter part of the cold war have not been able to donate blood. I hope that NIH will make in a priority and obtain funding to develop ways to test for bovine spongiform in people through a blood test.
[Note: I updated the question from "veterans" to "Veterans and service members" on June 6, 2015 - 71st anniversary of D Day - Operation Overlord]

[update May 18, 2018] As of 2017, worldwide 230 people, roughly 180 in the UK have been infected with vCJD and 4 people in the USA have been infected.

Mad Cow and VCJD are nervous system diseases which are based on diseased prions [not the car]. Diseased prions binds to proteins and converts them to prions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pxojz6grwcU

Thanks to 1SG Private RallyPoint Member for alerting me that "there is progress in the development of methods to detect misfolded proteins in the bloodstream" I did research and found the following at an NIH site.
As this article informs us there has been progress in control groups testing of "developed blood tests to detect prion." The article states that there are plans to "validate their methods using larger samples sizes."
Hopefully this process will be successful to detect whether or not we have been infected by Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD); "Mad Cow Disease."

"Prion diseases are a group of rare, fatal brain diseases that affect animals and humans. They are caused by normally harmless proteins that become abnormal and form clumps in the brain. One form, called variant CJD (vCJD), is associated with eating meat from cattle infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy, commonly known as “mad cow” disease.

People may have vCJD for years before symptoms—such as depression, hallucinations, moving difficulties, and dementia—appear. These “silent” carriers have small amounts of prions in their bloodstreams and can transmit the disease to others via blood transfusions. The only current method to diagnose vCJD is to perform a biopsy or a postmortem analysis of brain tissue. Thus, a noninvasive test to detect prions in blood is a medical priority.

Two research groups recently developed blood tests to detect prions. The results appeared in a pair of papers published on December 21, 2016, in Science Translational Medicine. One of the groups, led by Dr. Claudio Soto of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, was funded in part by NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS).

Prions are scarce in the bloodstream and difficult to measure. Both teams developed methods to amplify the prions in blood samples using a technique called protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA). PMCA relies on the characteristic nature of prions to cause certain healthy proteins to clump abnormally and convert into prions.

Soto’s group first combined healthy proteins with known concentrations of infectious vCJD prions. They intermittently agitated these mixtures with sound waves. The agitation helped break the prions into smaller chunks. This increased the number of prions that could then convert healthy proteins into prions. Using this method, the scientists were able to detect more than a billion-fold dilution of prions using an anti-prion antibody.

The scientists next tested whether the technique could be used to detect prions in blood samples from 14 people with vCJD and 153 controls. The controls included healthy people as well as people with different neurological or neurodegenerative disorders, including sporadic CJD, the most common form of CJD. The assay flagged all the vCJD samples correctly.

In the second paper, a French research group described a similar approach testing a blinded panel of blood samples. That team identified 18 vCJD patients in a group of 256 samples.

“Our findings, which need to be confirmed in further studies, suggest that our method of detection could be useful for the noninvasive diagnosis of this disease in pre-symptomatic individuals,” Soto says. Early diagnosis would allow potential therapies to be tested before substantial brain damage occurred. This technique would also allow blood contaminated with prions to be detected and removed from the blood supply.

Both teams are now working to validate their methods using larger samples sizes.
―by Anita Ramanathan
nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/new-method-accurately-detects-prions-blood

~793507:LTC Bill Koski] CW5 Private RallyPoint Member MSG Brad Sand SGM Steve Wettstein SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" SP5 Mark Kuzinski SrA Christopher Wright PO1 William "Chip" Nagel PO1 John Miller SP5 Robert Ruck SPC Private RallyPoint Member PO3 Steven Sherrill SN Greg Wright Maj Marty Hogan SCPO Morris Ramsey TSgt Joe C. Cpl Joshua Caldwell SGT Michael Thorin SP5 Dave (Shotgun) Shockley SPC Margaret Higgins

What Happened to Mad Cow Disease?

If you were around in the '90s, you might remember the scare over mad cow disease, but it seems to have quieted down in the intervening years. What happened?...

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2015 10:50 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:50:06 -0400

I can't give blood, but only because I am on blood thinners.

Response by SGT Forrest Stewart made Jun 4 at 2015 10:51 AM

SGT Forrest Stewart — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:51:16 -0400

I stopped donating blood when the red cross denied help when my grandfather in 1981. Sorry.

Response by Cpl Andrew Tucker made Jun 4 at 2015 10:56 AM

Cpl Andrew Tucker — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:56:04 -0400

I think it's crap that we can't give blood just because we and/or our sponsor was stationed in Europe in the 80s. You can definitely test for the disease in your system. I don't have it. The VA has enough of my blood to prove it lol.

Response by CPO Joseph Grant made Jun 4 at 2015 10:57 AM

CPO Joseph Grant — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:57:00 -0400

I can't. Something about one of the countries I visited. I don't even remember which one.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2015 11:06 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:06:08 -0400

Many veterans who have deployed are ineligible to donate due to effects of food potentially consumed while deployed. When I worked for the Army Blood Donor Program, most of my donations came from Basic Trainees since most of them had not traveled abroad.

Response by SGT Darryl Allen made Jun 4 at 2015 11:13 AM

SGT Darryl Allen — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:13:00 -0400

Being an aircraft crewmember prohibits me from donating due to the risks of hypoxia during flight. I'm not really sure of the science behind it, but I'm assuming it has to do with having less blood means less cells to carry oxygen and in oxygen starved altitudes it further impedes your body's ability to supply oxygen to the brain.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2015 11:15 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:15:50 -0400

Since they still don't have a reliable test to detect mad cow, anyone living in Western Europe for more than five years cumulative since 1980 is deferred from donating blood.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Jun 4 at 2015 11:19 AM

Maj Chris Nelson — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:19:59 -0400

I am banned from blood donation. I was in Europe in the 1980s for Mad Cow Disease, was in Saudi/Kuwait during Desert Shield/Storm, Iraq for OIF, and Afghanistan for OEF. Before the bans were put in place for some of these locations, I was denied one time for a tattoo less then 6 months old. I miss it, but it is what it is. My dad continues to donate at the age of 82 on a regular basis, but he has not done/been to many of the places I have been.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jun 4 at 2015 11:31 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:31:20 -0400

Same reason, permanent bar based on service in Germany

Response by MSgt Michael Durkee made Jun 4 at 2015 11:43 AM

MSgt Michael Durkee — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:43:00 -0400

Yes, I'm one of the many Veterans that is banned from giving blood because I was stationed in England during the Mad Cow Disease epidemic. It's frustrating not being able to donate for both the health aspect of making room for "fresh blood" in my body and not being able to help those that would benefit from blood in a crisis.

Response by SGT John Wesley made Jun 4 at 2015 11:51 AM

SGT John Wesley — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:51:05 -0400

Germany... I loved donating blood... But my desire to chew grass has hampered me recently...

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Jun 4 at 2015 12:16 PM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 12:16:06 -0400

I was stationed @ HAHN AB GE from 84-88. Cannot give blood. :-(

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2015 12:36 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 12:36:45 -0400

Mad Cow and before I went there I was a two-gallon blood donor. They need to figure this out. Germany 81-84 TDY 1977, Frankfurt,

Response by TSgt David L. made Jun 4 at 2015 1:14 PM

TSgt David L. — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:14:59 -0400

I used to donate all the time but I'm a mad cow, you see?! LOL

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2015 1:52 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:52:15 -0400

Same reason here....I was stationed in Germany for 8 years and I cannot give blood. MOooOooOooOooOooOoo!!!!!

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made Jun 4 at 2015 1:58 PM

CPT Bruce Rodgers — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:58:25 -0400

Too much of my stomach and upper intestine had to be removed so they told me it would make very ill if I were to give blood, guess I can't spare any

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 4 at 2015 2:10 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 14:10:24 -0400

I think those of us stationed in Germany and surrounding countries in the 1980's can become part of Chick-fil-a's "Eat more Chicken" campaign as an angry cow brigade. I recommend and nominate the following RallyPoint members for leadership positions in this angry cow brigade;
I realize some of you were not exposed to Bovine Spongiform infected beef. However I would like to honor you as honorary leaders in this distinguished Mac Cow Brigade of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD) badged military service members :-)
Thanks to 1SG Private RallyPoint Member for alerting me that "there is progress in the development of methods to detect misfolded proteins in the bloodstream" I did research and found the following at an NIH site.
As this article informs us there has been progress in control groups testing of "developed blood tests to detect prion." The article states that there are plans to "validate their methods using larger samples sizes."
Hopefully this process will be successful to detect whether or not we have been infected by Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD); "Mad Cow Disease."

"Prion diseases are a group of rare, fatal brain diseases that affect animals and humans. They are caused by normally harmless proteins that become abnormal and form clumps in the brain. One form, called variant CJD (vCJD), is associated with eating meat from cattle infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy, commonly known as “mad cow” disease.

People may have vCJD for years before symptoms—such as depression, hallucinations, moving difficulties, and dementia—appear. These “silent” carriers have small amounts of prions in their bloodstreams and can transmit the disease to others via blood transfusions. The only current method to diagnose vCJD is to perform a biopsy or a postmortem analysis of brain tissue. Thus, a noninvasive test to detect prions in blood is a medical priority.

Two research groups recently developed blood tests to detect prions. The results appeared in a pair of papers published on December 21, 2016, in Science Translational Medicine. One of the groups, led by Dr. Claudio Soto of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, was funded in part by NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS).

Prions are scarce in the bloodstream and difficult to measure. Both teams developed methods to amplify the prions in blood samples using a technique called protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA). PMCA relies on the characteristic nature of prions to cause certain healthy proteins to clump abnormally and convert into prions.

Soto’s group first combined healthy proteins with known concentrations of infectious vCJD prions. They intermittently agitated these mixtures with sound waves. The agitation helped break the prions into smaller chunks. This increased the number of prions that could then convert healthy proteins into prions. Using this method, the scientists were able to detect more than a billion-fold dilution of prions using an anti-prion antibody.

The scientists next tested whether the technique could be used to detect prions in blood samples from 14 people with vCJD and 153 controls. The controls included healthy people as well as people with different neurological or neurodegenerative disorders, including sporadic CJD, the most common form of CJD. The assay flagged all the vCJD samples correctly.

In the second paper, a French research group described a similar approach testing a blinded panel of blood samples. That team identified 18 vCJD patients in a group of 256 samples.

“Our findings, which need to be confirmed in further studies, suggest that our method of detection could be useful for the noninvasive diagnosis of this disease in pre-symptomatic individuals,” Soto says. Early diagnosis would allow potential therapies to be tested before substantial brain damage occurred. This technique would also allow blood contaminated with prions to be detected and removed from the blood supply.

Both teams are now working to validate their methods using larger samples sizes.

―by Anita Ramanathan
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/new-method-accurately-detects-prions-blood
FYI Maj William W. 'Bill' Price Capt Seid Waddell 1stSgt Eugene Harless MSG Andrew White SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4"SCPO Morris Ramsey SPC Robert Skinner SGT Rick Ash SGT Jim Arnold LTC Private RallyPoint Member SMSgt Thor Merich SSG Eddye Royal SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson MSG David Lambert Lt Col Ruth Sylvester

New method accurately detects prions in blood

A sensitive blood test accurately detected variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, an incurable and fatal neurodegenerative disorder. The method could be used to diagnose prion diseases and prevent disease transmission.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2015 2:50 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 14:50:04 -0400

Because I deployed multiple times to multiple third world countries, I am currently restricted from giving blood. The last was Afghanistan, and if I remember correctly, I have to have been back from that country and clean/clear of disease for at least 7 years, which will be 2018 for me. As for BSE: If you consumed beef in the 1980's, you'd be dead by now if it was infected with BSE and you contracted CJD from that. Otherwise, you're clean as far as that is concerned and the RC shouldn't have any issue with it anymore.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 4 at 2015 10:23 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 22:23:47 -0400

I was told once that because I was stationed in England during a Hoof and Mouth disease scare that I couldn't donate blood. But when I was stationed in Hawaii we were doing a blood drive and I spoke with the Army medics running the thing. They allowed me to donate blood.

So it may be worth asking the Red Cross if that's still policy for your case.

Response by SSG Mark Ives made Jun 4 at 2015 10:56 PM

SSG Mark Ives — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 22:56:22 -0400

3 tours to Germany from late 70's to early 90's, so American Red Cross said same about mad cow threat to blood supply. Which is unfortunate because I am O negative and used to give blood regularly.

Response by SPC Chris Early made Jun 5 at 2015 6:59 AM

SPC Chris Early — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 06:59:50 -0400

What about plasma, are you allowed to donate.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jun 5 at 2015 11:32 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 11:32:08 -0400

Malaria. I contracted it in Vietnam (and before you jump all over me, I did take my "pills" as instructed).

The onsets occurred with decreasing frequency and severity in the years following, but doctors tell me it's still there waiting for my health to weaken so that it can jump out and kill me eventually.

Yes, some strains of malaria can be eradicated, but the doctors can't tell which I have until it comes out of hiding.

In the meantime, I've been told not to donate blood inasmuch as it is a blood-borne disease.

Response by SGT Anthony Bussing made Jun 6 at 2015 7:19 PM

SGT Anthony Bussing — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:19:16 -0400

I used to donate quite often...seeing as how I am O Neg, Im quite popular among the vampires...lol...also working in the medical field, I know how important it is to have a good supply of blood on hand...

but alas...I no longer donate...ive never checked into it to see if I can or not, but I think due to the meds I take for my heart disease, Im not allowed...plus...I take plavix...which is a blood thinner...id bleed like a stuck hog when they would pull that big old 16 gauge needle out of my arm...lol...but I do encourage everyone who is eligible to donate....as often as possible...it is one of those things where you do something good for someone...but never know the outcome of it....

I am also an organ donor....

Response by SGT Kristjan Rahe made Jun 6 at 2015 7:23 PM

SGT Kristjan Rahe — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:23:46 -0400

Like you sor, I was stationed in Germany during the 1980s. The alleged threat of bovine spongiform encephalopathy is questionable in my book. Prior to my time in Germany I was a devout donor, 1 gallon +. Now I know that there are this with Gulf War Syndrome that are denied also, and I guess I would be denied due to exposure to PCBs, rtc at Ft. McClellan. I hate it as I believe in the need. Wish we could get more direct answers

Response by SGT Anthony Bussing made Jun 6 at 2015 7:32 PM

SGT Anthony Bussing — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:32:16 -0400

from the red cross website...

http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical-listing

Blood Donor Eligibility: Blood Pressure, Pregnancy, Disease & More | American Red Cross

Are you considering donating blood with the American Red Cross. Learn more about our eligibility requirements for blood donors.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Jun 6 at 2015 7:34 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:34:14 -0400

I got told that too. I was stationed in Schweinfurt in 1990 and apparently we ate a lot of angry cows. The only way to test us for exposure is post-mortem? Scary. Moo!

Response by CPT Bruce Beattie made Jun 6 at 2015 7:38 PM

CPT Bruce Beattie — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:38:03 -0400

On one of my first dates with my first wife we gave blood to the ARC. I gave blood on a semi-regular basis until I wound up with an ICD following a successful resuscitation following a cardiac arrest at 49 y/o. ( Thank you Agent Orange) My second wife continued to give blood until her medical conditions precluded it at 58 y/o. Yes it sucks not to be able to donate. No, I have not counted the little gold pins the ARC gave for each gallon. The military gave no pins but, we gave troops the rest of the day off. ( You old guys like me will also remember the shot of whiskey as well!) Be proud of what you were once able to do but, please let the Hemotologists err on the side of safety! :)

Response by CPT Alan W. made Jun 6 at 2015 7:39 PM

CPT Alan W. — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:39:18 -0400

Gay men can't donate blood, doesn't matter of status. I would donate if ARC would take it.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 6 at 2015 7:44 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:44:47 -0400

According to the Red Cross weblink provided by SGT Anthony Bussing,
Because of potential exposure to and infection with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD) - "Mad Cow Disease" you are not eligible to donate if:
You were a member of the of the U.S. military, a civilian military employee, or a dependent of a member of the U.S. military who spent a total time of 6 months on or associated with a military base in any of the following areas during the specified time frames
From 1980 through 1990 - Belgium, the Netherlands (Holland), or Germany
From 1980 through 1996 - Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Italy or Greece.
I found at the following information which has quotes bounding each paragraph at the MD Travel Health website http://www.mdtravelhealth.com/infectious/mad_cow_disease.php
which is generally corroborated by information I found at Canadian Health sites and other US medical sites.
"Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a degenerative neurologic disease acquired by eating beef from cows with a related illness known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) ("mad cow disease"). The disorder was initially described in the United Kingdom. As of June 2005, there were 155 definite or probable cases of variant CJD reported from the United Kingdom, as well as a small number of cases from France, Italy, and the Republic of Ireland. "Mad cow disease" has also been identified in Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Israel, Japan, and the United States, but human cases have not been reported from these countries to date."
"Bovine spongiform encephalopathy appears to be caused by abnormal proteins called prions, which do not resemble bacteria, viruses, or other conventional causes of human and animal disease. The agent that causes BSE is transmitted when meat and bone meal feed prepared from the carcasses of infected animals is fed back to other cattle. (This practice has been banned within the European Union and many other countries). The infection is not transmitted directly from animal to animal within herds. A new case of BSE arising within a country is therefore much more significant than an imported case, because it implies that recycled ruminant protein is still being used within that country as animal feed, against all current recommendations."
"The agent that causes BSE is concentrated in nervous tissue, such as brain and spinal cord. Since this agent has never been found in skeletal muscle, which is the source of most quality meat, the current thinking is that most cases of variant CJD are caused by contamination of meat by nervous tissue during slaughter and processing. Careful slaughter practices can therefore markedly reduce the risk of acquiring variant CJD, even in a country where BSE is known to occur."
"The incubation period of variant CJD appears to be several years or longer. Initial symptoms may be psychiatric, similar to depression or (less often) psychosis. Patients may complain of unusual sensory symptoms, such as "stickiness" of the skin. Later symptoms include unsteady gait, involuntary movements, dementia, and mutism, progressing inevitably to death within 1-2 years. There is no treatment."
"Variant CJD can only be acquired by eating beef or beef products; i.e if you do not consume beef or beef products while visiting a country which has reported "mad cow disease", you cannot become infected. There is no evidence of any risk from pork, lamb, milk or milk products. The Centers for Disease Control does not advise against eating European beef, but suggests that travelers who wish to reduce their risk may either abstain from beef completely while in Europe or eat only solid pieces of muscle meat, such as steak, rather than products like sausage or chopped meat that might be contaminated during processing. Cooking, drying, or freezing does not inactivate the agent that causes new variant CJD or prevent its transmission."
I wonder how much radiation exposure would be required to destroy any Mad Cow infection and if we could survive that level of radiation. I have had several does of thallium radiation for heart studies and more CT Scans of my abdomen with contrast than I can remember.
When I talked with the Red Cross a couple months ago, research blood screening for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD) - "Mad Cow Disease" was somewhere on the list of potentially priority funded research. I certainly hope that NIH, Red Cross, etc. will be directed to move up the priority for this blood screening process so that most of the hundreds of thousands of us currently restricted will be permitted to donate blood.
FYI COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC Stephen C. LTC Orlando Illi Lt Col Charlie Brown Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. Maj William W. 'Bill' Price CPT Jack Durish Capt Tom Brown MSG Andrew White SFC William Farrell SGT Private RallyPoint Member Sgt Albert Castro SSG David Andrews Sgt Randy Wilber Sgt John H. CPL Dave Hoover SGT Mark Halmrast SPC Margaret Higgins SrA Christopher Wright

MD Travel HealthInfectious

mdtravelhealth.com - complete travel healthinformation, updated daily, for physicians and travelers.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2015 7:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:56:48 -0400

I was told a few years ago that I couldn't donate blood because I got the entire series of anthrax shots. Maybe the lady at the sign up table was being a dingbat because I don't see how that's a bad thing.

I will have to ask again at the next blood drive here at Benning.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jun 6 at 2015 7:58 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 19:58:08 -0400

I am not able diabetes....

Response by SPC William Weedman made Jun 6 at 2015 8:55 PM

SPC William Weedman — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 20:55:44 -0400

I believe I have donated for the last time to the ARC. I am moving to Europe this fall and as far as I'm aware that blood ban is still in effect. I will donate to the Dutch Red Cross I'm sure they will welcome my A- blood type. I had a scare in the early 2000s over my assignment to Korea, but that was I guess a non-issue as I was never asked about it again.
Someday the ARC will suddenly need blood and then work on getting all of us veterans who have no issue with rolling up our sleeves back into the donate again category.
For the record the mad cows in Europe are tasty!

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Jun 6 at 2015 8:56 PM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 20:56:27 -0400

my blood sugar hovers between 300 and 400.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2015 9:22 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 21:22:11 -0400

holy crap I didn't know that I'm infected too who knew

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2015 9:57 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 21:57:11 -0400

I can't donate because I am anemic. And even though I take iron supplements and my levels are normal, they still won't let me.

Response by SFC Jeff Gurchinoff made Jun 6 at 2015 10:52 PM

SFC Jeff Gurchinoff — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 22:52:48 -0400

Yes Sir, never met a cow that was even slightly irritated when I was in Germany, but still I cannot donate blood....

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jun 6 at 2015 11:37 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 23:37:13 -0400

I got tangled with some nasty Malaria in the high side of Cambodia that the doxy/primi stuff wasn't cutting that strain too well. My liver enzymes were messed up for some time hence was off of the donation wagon for 3 years.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2015 12:18 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 00:18:12 -0400

Was a temporary precautionary measure to ensure that I wasn't infected during deployment.

Response by COL Korey Jackson made Jun 7 at 2015 7:31 AM

COL Korey Jackson — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 07:31:12 -0400

Both my wife and I are not able to give blood. I was first stationed in Germany from 1980-1983.

Don't you wonder what will happen to the recipients of our blood donated in the time period after our return to CONUS, but before the ban?

There are still wistful days when I miss that opportunity for free juice and cookies.

There was also an interesting study published in April describing the 4th confirmed case of vJCD in the United States - a case of a Texas man who was born in Kuwait but lived in the United States for over 14 years before demonstrating symptoms of vJCD.
(Available at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/21/5/pdfs/14-2017.pdf).

I still chuckle at a memory of the mid-1990's when I and a colleague stopped in an English pub and asked for a pint and a beef shepherd's pot pie. The barman delivered the pint and advised "you don't really want that pot pie. Mad Cow, you know."

Why The U.S. Still Bans Blood Donations From Some U.K. Travelers

Rules governing who can donate blood in the United States have recently changed. But anyone who spent more than three months in the UK between 1980 and 1996 is still prohibited from donating.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 7 at 2015 2:50 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 14:50:17 -0400

SSG(P) D. Wright Downs, did the Red Cross tell you could not donate blood because of the risk of Mad Cow or some other organization?
You mentioned "Then I was talking to another veteran of the same era and he was told Chernobyl . I did some research and he had a point---the radiation did contaminate our area and I saw documentaries on PBS about it. So, some who say Chernobyl are Mad Cow people, too."

Response by MSgt Jamie Lyons made Jun 7 at 2015 5:47 PM

MSgt Jamie Lyons — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 17:47:24 -0400

We got Heb B vaccine for some reason/deployment and now because I got Heb B anti-bodies I have been told I cannot donate. I have B pos blood and they used to love when I came in.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Jun 7 at 2015 6:57 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 18:57:15 -0400

Biological and chemical exposures from AO, GWI, etc.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Jun 7 at 2015 8:20 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 20:20:37 -0400

I'm O Neg and they call me and let me know the day the vampires can drink again. Important note to self, to NOT donate double red before running a long distance race.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Jun 7 at 2015 8:42 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 20:42:32 -0400

I am not a viable provider as a pancreatic cancer survivor and a 6 month, 24/7 chemotherapy recipient. I dislike that but I still have my "Gallon Club" card.

Response by TSgt Thomas Monaghan made Jun 8 at 2015 12:30 AM

TSgt Thomas Monaghan — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 00:30:09 -0400

I was stationed in Germany in the early 90's and can't donate if I were to get Mad cow I would have by now.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2015 8:25 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Jun 2015 20:25:08 -0400

I was stationed in England in the 90s. I can't give blood due to Madd Coww. Yes I spelled that like that on purpose

Response by LTC Peter Hartman made Jun 18 at 2015 11:15 AM

LTC Peter Hartman — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 11:15:11 -0400

I got a notice after Desert Storm that I could not give blood again. I asked a few times since and was not allowed to donate. Although I have seen articles on the internet that claim that I should be allowed.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jul 8 at 2015 10:49 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 10:49:15 -0400

Today, I posted the following to a local Chick-Fil-A Facebook restaurant's Facebook page, in a push to mobilize the "angry cow brigade":
I am thankful for many things about Chick-fil-A and the positions taken by its founder to ensure high quality food and that all employees have Sunday off.
Many veterans who served this nation and happened to be stationed for 6 months or more during the 1980's and early 1990's can not donate blood because of the possibility that we ate beef which had bovine spongiform [Mad Cow Disease]. I enjoy the commercials where cows recommend that we "Eat mor chiken".
In a humorous discussion of RallyPoint a network for active duty military and veterans, I recommended that many of us who can no longer donate blood be part of an "angry cow brigade" in the background of a Chick-fil-a commercial encouraging humans to eat more chicken. :-)
SSG(P) D. Wright Downs, Maj Chris Nelson, SGM Erik Marquez, SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member, MSgt Michael Durkee, SSgt Private RallyPoint Member, TSgt David L., SFC Private RallyPoint Member, SGT Kristjan Rahe, MSG Tom Earley, SGT Robert Hawks, SFC Mark Merino, SPC Private RallyPoint Member, SFC Jeff Gurchinoff, LTC Stephen C.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 10 at 2015 11:00 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Fri, 10 Jul 2015 23:00:08 -0400

I take medications

Response by SGT Shawn Antonious made Jul 10 at 2015 11:15 PM

SGT Shawn Antonious — Fri, 10 Jul 2015 23:15:59 -0400

I haven't been able to give blood since I was 19 yrs old.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2015 12:47 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 12:47:55 -0400

This really makes me angry. After donating blood and platelets for decades I was suddenly told that I could no longer give. I was told that because I lived in germany in the '80s and '90 I cannot donate blood. There is no test other than cutting up your brain to tell if you have the condition. No one at the Red Cross seems willing to even talk about it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2015 1:13 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 13:13:26 -0400

I grew up in Italy and so I have always been told I cannot donate. I feel your pain though. I would love to contribute and I don't think I have madcow. I can't believe hiv positive people will be allowed to donate . Scary

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jul 11 at 2015 3:20 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 15:20:33 -0400

I hope that if enough us realize that we can't donate blood because there are no blood tests which confirm that we have or do not have Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD) antibodies or the disease, that Congress will take appropriate action and assign a high enough priority with appropriate funding levels to develop the needed blood tests. CPT Bruce Beattie CPL Doug Hill SPC William Weedman, SFC Mark Merino, SGT Anthony Bussing , Sgt Private RallyPoint Member, TSgt Thomas Monaghan, COL Korey Jackson, Cpl Andrew Tucker, CW3 Private RallyPoint Member, MSgt Michael Durkee, SGT John Wesley, SFC Jeff Gurchinoff

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2015 2:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:59:21 -0400

Yep stationed in Germany, cant give, i keep trying every couple of years but to date, its a NoGo.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2015 8:29 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Jul 2015 08:29:08 -0400

I was born in Germany in '88 while my dad was stationed there. Came as a surprise when I tried to donate blood and got denied.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 3:51 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 15:51:03 -0400

I'm turned down because of all the meds I take. I used to be able to give blood. I started a blood drive where I worked for a friends baby that was born with Sickle Cell Anemia. The company continues to have blood drives twice a year.

Response by SPC George Long made Aug 20 at 2015 4:13 PM

SPC George Long — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 16:13:21 -0400

I received both Hep b and c from the guns used by the Army to give mass injections at Basic Training, This was in 1968 at FT Bragg. I suspect from what I saw on 60 mins a few years ago that everyone who got inoculated with the guns got contaminated with. something. Neither are active in me but the markers exist, . Eventually it was discovered and the guns were discontinued in the 70.

Response by SGT Tresa Silva-Rooks made Aug 20 at 2015 5:15 PM

SGT Tresa Silva-Rooks — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 17:15:22 -0400

Meds and blood thinners

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Aug 20 at 2015 5:56 PM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 17:56:23 -0400

I gave three gallons in the day, but I've got too many health issues these days...

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Aug 20 at 2015 7:13 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 19:13:03 -0400

Malaria

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Aug 20 at 2015 7:18 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 19:18:37 -0400

When I was on Active Duty, I gave blood all the time. Hell, gallons of the red gold but ever since I came down with cancer, I can no longer donate my blood. They won't even take a drop. Believe me, I tried!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 8:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 20:19:25 -0400

As an immigrant from eu and service man of U.S. army I am having the same problem, they are saying that the standards are not equal to us and I have to say bull to that

Response by LTC Michael A. Staves made Aug 20 at 2015 10:19 PM

LTC Michael A. Staves — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 22:19:42 -0400

Stationed in Afghanistan

Response by SFC Cindy Paris made Aug 20 at 2015 11:12 PM

SFC Cindy Paris — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 23:12:10 -0400

I too tried to donate blood and because I was stationed in Germany in the early 80's I also cannot donate. Seems to me that by now they would have something in place to test the blood for Mad Cow.

Response by CPL Dean Thomas made Aug 21 at 2015 1:17 PM

CPL Dean Thomas — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 13:17:48 -0400

I'm not because I was deployed to desert shield/storm and received the anthrax shot then also I went to somalia

Response by CPL Dean Thomas made Aug 21 at 2015 1:19 PM

CPL Dean Thomas — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 13:19:01 -0400

All are but mainly the Army Engineers

Response by MAJ F. Patrick Filbert made Aug 28 at 2015 12:45 AM

MAJ F. Patrick Filbert — Fri, 28 Aug 2015 00:45:15 -0400

I fall in the same category. I used to give all the time and then Desert Storm happened and when you take the malaria pills they gave us were were "no give blood" status for a time. Then, a second "quarantine' went into effect due to the possibility of exposure to leishmaniasis. Then, the whole "mad cow" thing. Red Cross refuses to work up a test that doesn't involve killing me and since DOD follows the Red Cross's standards on blood, they instantly took out 100s of thousands now unable to give blood. If RC has come up with a way for HIV positive folks to give blood, please tell me why there isn't a way for the rest of us? Now, since vCJD is extremely rare (175 reported cases in Europe, US, Canada, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan between 1996-2011: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs180/en/) the odds that US military actually have are are extremely low (only 3 cases in the US per the above stats and time period). Since "Researchers believe that the infectious agent that causes mad cow disease is an abnormal version of a protein normally found on cell surfaces, called a prion." I know I'm mystified as to why a test to detect it has yet to be developed; especially since the restriction for blood given went into effect nearly 23 years ago

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Aug 28 at 2015 9:14 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Fri, 28 Aug 2015 09:14:32 -0400

Since Congress is winding down for the summer, right now may be a great time to contact your Congressional representatives [Senators and Congressman/woman] to request they work on getting HHS [Department of Health and Human Services] to direct NIH to develop blood tests for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD) antibodies or the disease.
We want tests for individuals that would let us know whether or not we have the disease or antibodies for it. This would not require testing the entire blood supply.
It would be much better for the few who might have the disease to know and the rest of us to be free to donate again.
I know many of you have already contacted congress to request they get moving on this issue.
COL Mikel J. Burroughs, LTC Stephen C., SMSgt Minister Gerald A. Thomas, SFC Mark Merino, SFC Private RallyPoint Member, SGT John Wesley, PO1 John Miller, Cpl Andrew Tucker, SFC Private RallyPoint Member, CPL Doug Hill, TSgt Thomas Monaghan, SFC Cindy Paris, SGT Tim Fridley, Sgt Private RallyPoint Member, SGT Private RallyPoint Member SGT Randal Groover, SGT Forrest Stewart, SGT Scott Bell, SPC Private RallyPoint Member

Response by CH (MAJ) Thomas Conner made Aug 29 at 2015 11:24 AM

CH (MAJ) Thomas Conner — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 11:24:09 -0400

I am a part of the "No blood from you!" club also. Although I was stationed in Germany 1980-1984, I was able to donate every six weeks, and I did. What changed everything for me was heart and multiple back surgeries. I used to like donating, I felt like my body received an oil change!

Response by SFC Gary Burress made Aug 29 at 2015 1:18 PM

SFC Gary Burress — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 13:18:18 -0400

I used to donate blood every time I was eligible but since about 2000, I am refused since I was in Germany for two years in the early 80s. I can only imagine that the blood banks are really hurting because vets and active duty service members have always been a major contributor. If it is not one reason to deny vets the right to donate blood it is the other.

Response by SPC Martin Beasley made Dec 19 at 2015 10:52 AM

SPC Martin Beasley — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 10:52:33 -0500

A few years ago I attempted to donate plasma and was told about the risk of tainted blood from Mad Cow's disease. I had never heard of this before that time. Where can a veteran go for help?

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Apr 1 at 2016 11:46 AM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Fri, 01 Apr 2016 11:46:09 -0400

LTC Stephen F. I completely able, so I don't fall into your categories execpt for other (Fully Mission Capable)!

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Apr 1 at 2016 11:52 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Fri, 01 Apr 2016 11:52:07 -0400

I was a haz mat spill clean up specialist for my civilian employer and got infected from blood borne pathogens. On the positive side, I'm immune from further Hep infections.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 1 at 2016 5:50 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Fri, 01 Apr 2016 17:50:31 -0400

Egyptian Flu banned for 7 years (2 Tours in the Persian Gulf) Mad Cow banned for Life (Stationed in London 84-87). So Far So Good no Spongiform Encephalitis that I can tell.

Response by Sgt Joe LaBranche made Apr 2 at 2016 12:31 PM

Sgt Joe LaBranche — Sat, 02 Apr 2016 12:31:11 -0400

Agent Orange resulted in Eschemic Heart Disease, which requires that I take three types of blood thinners.

Response by SPC Tanya Cummings Boozer made Apr 3 at 2016 1:31 PM

SPC Tanya Cummings Boozer — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 13:31:57 -0400

The "accepted" reasons we cannot donate.
http://www.militaryblood.dod.mil/Donors/can_i_donate.aspx
I have a Desert Storm veteran friend who has declassifed documents which prove it is way more than "Mad Cow Disease" which is keeping us from donating indefinitely! I am trying to find out now if he is on Rally Point, and if not, I will invite him to join and join this discussion.
But yes, I was originally told I could not donate for 20 years, then just 6 years ago I was told I would never be allowed to donate again. I too donated on regular basis while in the military and when I got out, until they made that decision, which was around mid 90s?

ASBP: Can I Donate? - General guidelines and restrictions

Response by CPL Jeffrey OConnor made Apr 27 at 2016 1:47 PM

CPL Jeffrey OConnor — Wed, 27 Apr 2016 13:47:34 -0400

I was unable to donate blood for years after receiving an experimental Japanese encephalitis vaccine before deploying to Thailand. I have no idea if it still disqualifies me.

Response by 1LT John Jacobs made Aug 5 at 2016 2:24 PM

1LT John Jacobs — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 14:24:51 -0400

Wow... This should be considered an immediate 100% disability because of the huge health effects it could have on the Service Member and his family... This could be the reason for the rise in dementia...

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2017 8:36 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Feb 2017 20:36:21 -0500

I gave for years, but, am now on too many meds.

Response by SPC William Weedman made Mar 2 at 2017 1:20 PM

SPC William Weedman — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 13:20:17 -0500

I am an expat living in Europe and as I understand the American Red Cross guidelines I am now no longer eligible to donate (over 1 year I think). But I understand the Dutch Red Cross has no issue with my blood...I'm planning to find out where I can donate.

Response by SSG Sylvester Connors made Mar 3 at 2017 1:28 PM

SSG Sylvester Connors — Fri, 03 Mar 2017 13:28:52 -0500

I was stationed in Germany from 94-97 and was told the same thing about donating. What a bummer!

Response by TSgt Greg Huffard made May 22 at 2017 2:36 PM

TSgt Greg Huffard — Mon, 22 May 2017 14:36:38 -0400

I am a 63 year old, 20 year retired USAF veteran (July '72 - Aug. '92). I was drafted into Army while an 18 yr. old high school senior in second to last draft for Vietnam. I opted for USAF instead. I was ordered in England from Nov. '74 - Oct. '76 and again, Aug. '83 - Aug. '87 and because my wife, at the time, was British from Oxford, I was one of a few that lived on the economy when RAF Greenham Common was being activated. Living 45 miles away, we did most shopping on British economy including meat. I was within 2 years of retirement
when I was "specially selected" and ordered, even though, I a non volunteer to Desert Shield, August 1990. I was also ordered to Saudi Arabia to Desert Shield/Storm arrived Dhahran, SA Labor Day 1990 - March 9, 1991.
* From Wikipedia "Aftermath of the Al-Hussein strike on US barracks
The greatest tactical achievement of the Al-Hussein was the destruction of a US military barracks in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, on 25 February 1991, when 28 soldiers were killed and other 110 injured, effectively taking out of action an entire supply company, composed mainly of reservists from Pennsylvania.[10]*
I saw that scud come in (3 miles away) and felt the impact even though the scud did not blow up. Due to my job, I was exposed to the smoke from the oil fires, sand from the sand storms, sewage clean up, parasites, flies, and vermin, PTabs, anthrax, various vaccinations, Deet, food borne illnesses and who knows what chemical warfare exposure.
Additional duties as CE hazard material NCO disposition of numerous toxic materials, i.e. trichloroethylene, herbicides and pesticides, like chloriphyrs. Mobility NCO and trainer, exposed to disturbed asbestos when WWII hangar roof at Malmstrom AFB, MT came off in later '80s and exposed my storage room with CWDE gear and gas masks, and I "had prevent government loss" of gear unprotected because until two days later when Disaster Prep. people went in for asbestos abatement did I know that the building was teeming with asbestos. Exposure to radiation at some AF bases due to weapons systems.

FYI: VA has all my medical history because they had to copy my personal records I got for myself at my retirement physical in November 1992 at Fort Harrison, Mt, I also became the first Montanan to sign up for the newly established Gulf War Registry in '92 (a phony waste of time) because after not hearing any info regarding Gulf War syndrome after 2 years, I found out that the VA had lost my registration and since fires destroyed most military medical records, I have become a skeptic.
In the last two years, my health has severely diminished, right hemisphere nerves are shot, long and short loss of memory, spinal cord and disk issues and the VA and the phony Veterans Choice are useless, numerous claims files to the VA and denied, so I have 30% due to upper and lower lumbar (moving unassisted tons of property by hand), and flat flat.

Here is hopefully info that the "mad cow" folk like me can pursue:

New Test Spots Human Form of Mad Cow Disease with 100 Percent Accuracy
Blood screening technology may be able to diagnose infections before symptoms emerge
By Catherine Caruso on December 21, 2016 in Scientific American
Misfolded proteins called prions cause both mad cow and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Once they invade the brain, they begin recruiting normal proteins and forcing them to adopt the same abnormal shape. The prions and the blighted proteins clump together forming increasingly large aggregate deposits that wreak havoc on the brain and invariably lead to death. The disease, however, has a long incubation period. “In the case of humans, the estimation goes from several years to a few decades,” says Claudio Soto, a neurologist at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth in Houston. “So it could be that you're exposed one day and then, 40 years after, you develop the disease.”
Sincerely and all the best;
Greg

Response by SGT Michael Thorin made May 22 at 2017 8:30 PM

SGT Michael Thorin — Mon, 22 May 2017 20:30:20 -0400

LTC Stephen F. mine are all secondary to my service in Iraq. With all of the disease processes in my body I can no longer donate blood or organs.

Response by TSgt Greg Huffard made May 25 at 2017 11:13 AM

TSgt Greg Huffard — Thu, 25 May 2017 11:13:40 -0400

I contacted my local VA Clinic as my condition continues to worsen about getting tested for vCJD, the nurse said she knows of no one here in Montana that has requested "Mad Cow" testing. Typical response from an uninformed socialite (and there are a lot in the VA system). Most of the Americans (politicians, doctors, lawyers, non-warring factions, career college, entitlement, and rather be skiing sorts) did what we did, lived where we lived, and took shots (like swine flu, anthrax, pox, etc. before the DHHS, CDC, FDA would put it out to the general public) like we did - been there done that. The denials continue at the Federal, State, and local levels and we continue to be strung along.
I am done. I am getting tested, I need to do it now or post mortem, I would rather do it now, and if cleared, I will give blood, if not, I hope that all who have been denied blood bank donations because of where you lived for 3 months or more, raise hell with your elected officials about this discriminatory cover up. Remember Agent Orange!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 1:12 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 13:12:38 -0500

I used to give blood regularly until I was diagnosed with PTSD and kidney disease. It’s not particularly those symptoms as much as it is for the meds I take for those symptoms. Now that I’ve been diagnosed with Agent Orange, there’s no way I’ll ever be able to donate blood. In 1976, where I worked, I started the first blood drive ever done at that facility, for a friend who’s new born son was born with sickle cell anemia. I was glad to be able to donate knowing it would help more than one person. That facility still has blood drives every year. A few years ago I went to that facility to donate, but was turned down. Can you imagine the irony and hurt when that happened?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 9:47 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 09:47:06 -0500

I was stationed in Germany the same time you were. I can't donate because of my meds and heart disease. Now I learn I have a double whammy with having possible "mad cow" disease. I miss being able to donate.

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Feb 10 at 2018 1:38 PM

SFC Dennis A. — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 13:38:10 -0500

I was told that I couldn't donate blood because of my time in the Marshall Islands, Germany, Honduras, and my time in Desert Shield/Storm.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 2:41 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 14:41:33 -0500

The Army said I may have been exposed to mad cow disease when I was stationed in Germany in the late 70s.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 6:15 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 18:15:59 -0500

I'll never forget the morning I was standing outside drinking coffee when they brought the food into the DFAC. Stamped on the side of the box was "Grade F: for military or prison use only."

Some things haven't changed sir.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Feb 10 at 2018 10:19 PM

Maj Marty Hogan — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 22:19:40 -0500

Interesting- I have not heard of some of these- will have to do some digging. I know a few Gulf War vets from sand fleas if I recall correctly.

Response by SFC James Himes made Feb 11 at 2018 2:04 PM

SFC James Himes — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 14:04:57 -0500

Mine is due to my heart condition and the fact that I am now on medication to control cholesterol and BP.

Response by Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. made Feb 11 at 2018 2:14 PM

Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 14:14:49 -0500

Having been stationed in Europe in 1980's [risk of Mad Cow disease], we (includes my wife and two sons) were surprised to learn that we could no longer donate blood. Also after military service, I could be more involved in responding to politicians. The "Mad Cow" disease must be growing in me because I get more angry ever day at politicians. I've reached the point, that I am more than willing to donate blood anonymously solely to politicians.

Response by SSG Dale London made Feb 15 at 2018 9:11 PM

SSG Dale London — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 21:11:38 -0500

I can't donate because I'm on high blood pressure and gout meds. My blood is toxic.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 3:02 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 03:02:15 -0500

there are reasons one of which is travel to a malarial borne area. you will be barred for several years.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Feb 19 at 2018 9:05 PM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 21:05:30 -0500

After donating blood for years suddenly I was banned because I was stationed in Germany in the 1980's. Apparently due to Mad Cow disease. What is sad is that I have a rare blood type and am constantly bombarded by the Red Cross to donate blood. I have to wonder though, what about the gallons I donated before I was banned?

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 20 at 2018 10:10 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 10:10:41 -0500

Any time I give blood, due to time in Europe, Africa, etc- I have to go thru 10-15 minutes of questions and book searches to see if I'm qualified. (I'm) Tho for about 8 or so yrs after GF1 I was disqualified due to the shots/pills.

Response by MAJ Bob Firth made Mar 1 at 2018 9:53 AM

MAJ Bob Firth — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 09:53:33 -0500

In Europe when Chernobyl went off. They asked me that once. Also got anthrax vaccination which knocked me out too.

Response by MAJ Bob Firth made Mar 1 at 2018 9:59 AM

MAJ Bob Firth — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 09:59:34 -0500

No offense dude, but I will pass on the mad cow blood, as well as the HIV blood if I need a transfusion.

Response by Sgt R H made Mar 1 at 2018 4:26 PM

Sgt R H — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 16:26:54 -0500

I'm in the same boat - they won't take my blood

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Mar 1 at 2018 10:37 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 22:37:52 -0500

Yep, I'm one of those veterans too, that are on the "Red Cross Bad Boy" list too.

Response by CSM Jay Gallego made Mar 4 at 2018 9:24 PM

CSM Jay Gallego — Sun, 04 Mar 2018 21:24:01 -0500

You CANNOT donate blood if you are HIV+. Your Red Cross POC gave you erroneous information. Link for more information https://m.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-topic. By the way, I am also restricted to donate due to multiple deployments and time in Europe.

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Response by SSG Eddye Royal made Mar 4 at 2018 9:33 PM

SSG Eddye Royal — Sun, 04 Mar 2018 21:33:33 -0500

LTC Stephen Ford, I as stationed in Augsburg, Germany in the late 1980’s, I will go and get mine checked, its been a while since I’ve had mine done.

Response by SPC Brian Mason made Mar 4 at 2018 9:46 PM

SPC Brian Mason — Sun, 04 Mar 2018 21:46:11 -0500

I haven't. I tried less than a year after getting back from Iraq and was told I had to wait a certain amount of time. Since then, I've had no problem and have donated platelets as well.

Response by PVT John Williams made Mar 8 at 2018 9:35 AM

PVT John Williams — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 09:35:20 -0500

I used to donate until they found hep-c virus. We traced the infection back to the “needle guns” in the 70’s for me. Apparently they never wiped off the gun after every use.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Mar 8 at 2018 7:22 PM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 19:22:18 -0500

The likelihood is that none of us are infected. If we were we would be dead. The incubation time is relatively short. We need to write to our Congressional representatives and push them to turn this around. Only political pressure works.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2018 8:05 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 20:05:07 -0500

Never happened to me, they never ask me if I was a veteran, just if I was a Drug-gee.
I always ask them if that was a trick question, since my doctor prescribes me 9 different drugs to take daily.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made Mar 8 at 2018 8:05 PM

CW5 Jack Cardwell — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 20:05:24 -0500

I left Germany Jan 1980, when did the cows get mad ??

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Mar 8 at 2018 8:25 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 20:25:22 -0500

Was in Turkey in 80s and that disqualifies me. Guess there was a huge hepatitis outbreak there then. Not sure why after all these years I'm still not able to donate, but every time I go to a donation site the screener says I still can't donate.

Response by SGT Jim Arnold made Mar 8 at 2018 8:28 PM

SGT Jim Arnold — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 20:28:54 -0500

Germany 87-91

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Mar 8 at 2018 8:35 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 20:35:39 -0500

Update on March 8, 2018
"DoD Says Troops in Europe Safe From 'Mad Cow' By Gerry J. Gilmore on Jan. 31, 2001
WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2001 – By following prudent guidelines, U.S. service members and their families living in Europe should not fear catching the human derivative of the so-called mad cow disease, DoD veterinary officials say.
A traveler's advisory issued by the Centers for Disease Control for U.S. citizens in Europe notes that "the relative risk of becoming infected with BSE is very small, if it exists at all," said Army Col. Scott Severin, deputy director of DoD's Veterinary Service Activity. "BSE" is short for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, or what the media and public have dubbed "mad cow disease," he said.
Since March 1996, DoD has not purchased beef from the United Kingdom for commissaries, dining halls, post exchange outlets and authorized vendors to avoid possible customer contact with BSE, he said.

"The beef our service members are eating in the dining facilities comes from the United States," Severin said. "The meats being sold through Army and Air Force Exchange Service through the concessions and shoppettes or through the commissaries are all from the United States or from countries outside of Europe where there's no evidence of BSE."

He said DoD took steps in March 2000 to ban the procurement for sale of European-origin ruminant (beef, veal, mutton and lamb) meat and meat products containing them, for consumption by U.S. service members in Europe. "Additionally, DoD has distributed consumer awareness packets throughout European Command and Central Command areas of operations," he said.

Severin said the CDC's guidance to Americans who eat on the European economy and are concerned about exposure to BSE is to stay away from beef and beef products, if possible. "If you do want to eat beef (off installation), go with solid muscle meats like steak or roasts instead of something ground, like hamburgers or sausages," he said. "There is no risk associated with eating pork, poultry, milk or dairy products."

BSE is one of a group of chronic, degenerative diseases that attack the victim's central nervous system, Severin said. As its name implies, Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy affects cattle. The human form is called variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Sheep spongiform encephalopathy, one of the more prevalent and better known forms, goes by the name scrapie. Spongiform encephalopathies also occur in other animals including goats, elk, mule deer and cats.

The disease was first identified in the United Kingdom in 1986. British and Irish officials ordered thousands of cattle destroyed to prevent its spread, he said. Spongiform encephalopathy can spread when victims ingest or are injected with infected matter or tissues. Severin said experts today blame contaminated animal feed for the British outbreak.

"The British government put feed bans into place that appear to have been effective in reducing the epidemic in the United Kingdom," he said. That epidemic peaked in 1993 and the incidence rate has steadily declined since, although cases still occur, he noted.

Severin said concerns about BSE resurged in 1996 when the first cases of a new variant of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease appeared in the United Kingdom. There "appeared to be a very strong correlation between eating beef from BSE- infected animals and the occurrence of the variant CJD in humans," he noted.
The European Union banned the export of all British beef products in 1996 in an effort to prevent the spread of BSE to the continent, he said. This action failed to stop the spread of BSE to Europe.
"BSE has shown up on the continent. The most recent countries to have confirmed cases are Spain, Germany and Italy," Severin said.
He said the potential danger to humans from eating infected beef products is real, though remote. CDC has estimated the chances of contracting CJD from eating European beef at "less than one in 10 billion servings."
Both BSE and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob diseases are caused by "prions," short for "proteinaceous infectious particles," according to Web-based research sources. Scientists don't know how or why yet, but prions cause a host's healthy proteins to turn deadly.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is incurable; no serum or vaccine exists, Severin said. Victims usually die within a year, he noted. All cases of variant CJD cases have occurred in the United Kingdom, with the exception of three cases in France and one in Ireland.
In the United States, a recent quarantine of a Texas cattle herd made the headlines, but turned out to be "nondisease- related," Severin said. "There has never been BSE in U.S. beef herds," he said. "The U.S. Department of Agriculture has had an extensive surveillance program looking for BSE in the United States for years. They've never identified a single case of BSE."
{[http://archive.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=45103]}

FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

FYI MSG Andrew White SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4"SCPO Morris Ramsey SGT Michael Thorin SGT Private RallyPoint Member SGT Robert George MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. SSG Franklin Briant SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson Lt Col Charlie Brown Col Carl Whicker SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D SPC Michael Terrell SSgt Marian Mitchell SSgt Kelly D. SPC Nancy Greene

newsarticle.aspx

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Mar 8 at 2018 9:35 PM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 21:35:21 -0500

Malaria & TB

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Mar 8 at 2018 10:17 PM

MAJ Alvin B. — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 22:17:38 -0500

Can’t donate blood due to too many years in Northern Europe, so not permitted to give blood

Response by SGT(P) Joe Zitzelberger made Mar 9 at 2018 7:02 AM

SGT(P) Joe Zitzelberger — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 07:02:36 -0500

I have two strikes against my blood.

I was stationed in Europe around the time they discovered the Mad Cow problem, but depending on when I try to give blood, sometimes they say I was there less than 6 months before it was ok, sometimes it isn't. The Red Cross has changed the dates a few times over the last few decades.

My second strike was "Did I live in Africa for more than 6 month" question. Well, yes, I was in Somalia in 1993-4, sometimes that question is there, sometimes not.

So when work does the semiannual blood drive, I always go and volunteer and answer their questions honestly. About half the time, they tell me my blood is ok. The other half of the time, I have to do a walk of shame past all my waiting coworkers who, I'm sure, are all wondering why I got rejected after the interview/questionnaire part.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2018 9:18 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 09:18:24 -0500

No infections, but due to being anemic I have never been able to donate blood.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Mar 9 at 2018 1:40 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 13:40:59 -0500

I just checked the UK blood donation restrictions and there is no restriction for bovine spongiform exposure. It seems either they have concluded the risk is minimal or they have developed a way to screen out the blood of anybody infected with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD).
Whereas in this country "Rules governing who can donate blood in the United States have recently changed. But anyone who spent more than three months in the UK between 1980 and 1996 is still prohibited from donating."

"So who can give blood?
The majority of the British population is able to donate blood, says the NHS [National Health Service]. As long as the donor is fit and healthy, weighs over 7st 12lb (50kg) and is between 17 and 66, they are typically allowed to give blood. Male donors are allowed to donate about 470ml (just under a pint) every three months and women at four month intervals.

And who can't?
There are several exceptions. As well as those with existing medical conditions, the following people may not be allowed to donate blood:

1. Anyone who has travelled to certain countries outside of the UK within the past six months
2. Anyone who has had a tattoo, piercing or acupuncture in the past four months
3. Men who have had sex with men (with or without a condom) in the last three months
4. Anyone who has had sex with a sex worker in the last year
5. Anyone who has sex with someone who has been sexually active in parts of the world where Aids/HIV is very common in the last year
6. Anyone on antibiotics
7. Pregnant women and anyone receiving IVF treatment
8. Anyone who has been to the dentist in the last week"
http://www.theweek.co.uk/63895/giving-blood-who-is-and-who-isnt-allowed-to-donate

FYI LTC Bill Koski CW5 Private RallyPoint Member MSG Brad Sand SGM Steve Wettstein SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" PO1 William "Chip" Nagel PO1 John Miller SP5 Robert Ruck SPC Private RallyPoint Member PO3 Steven Sherrill SN Greg Wright SCPO Morris Ramsey Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. SSG Franklin Briant SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson

Blood donation: who is and isn’t allowed to give?

The NHS warns that blood donation levels are worrying low, but are their donor restrictions too extensive?

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Mar 9 at 2018 1:51 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 13:51:28 -0500

Some parasites I picked up in Vietnam, OK now

Response by MSgt Cayle Harris made Mar 10 at 2018 11:30 AM

MSgt Cayle Harris — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 11:30:35 -0500

Same reason, but I fit the category of stationed in Europe for a cumulative of 5 years; from 1980 to present.

Response by SPC Casey Ashfield made Mar 10 at 2018 3:29 PM

SPC Casey Ashfield — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 15:29:13 -0500

I was denied from donating blood the first 2 years after I came back from my deployment. There was no telling how many pathogens I came into contact with working on wounded local nationals overseas, so I got tentative denials. Although I would probably get a lifetime denial as I have constant exposure to individuals with Hepatitis C at my civilian job.

Response by TSgt David L. made Mar 10 at 2018 3:36 PM

TSgt David L. — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 15:36:13 -0500

Mad Cow! Nothing wrong with MOOOOOO!

Response by SFC David Lowery made Mar 10 at 2018 4:38 PM

SFC David Lowery — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 16:38:38 -0500

They won’t take my blood either. Guess I have mad cow

Response by SPC Saundra Teater made Mar 10 at 2018 9:52 PM

SPC Saundra Teater — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 21:52:57 -0500

My ptsd meds and depression and anxiety meds make it not usable

Response by Maj Robert Thornton made Mar 11 at 2018 1:33 PM

Maj Robert Thornton — Sun, 11 Mar 2018 13:33:17 -0400

Stationed in the UK for 4 years during the Mad Cow problem.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Mar 11 at 2018 6:36 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 11 Mar 2018 18:36:28 -0400

According to the Red Cross in this nation, with the exception of potential Mad Cow and certain diseases like Ebola, Zika, HIV most people could expect to be able to donate blood of blood products.
Medications and Vaccinations
Antibiotics
A donor with an acute infection should not donate. The reason for antibiotic use must be evaluated to determine if the donor has a bacterial infection that could be transmissible by blood.

Acceptable after finishing oral antibiotics for an infection (bacterial or viral). May have taken last pill on the date of donation. Antibiotic by injection for an infection acceptable 10 days after last injection. Acceptable if you are taking antibiotics to prevent an infection for the following reasons: acne, chronic prostatitis, peptic ulcer disease, periodontal disease, pre-dental work, rosacea, ulcerative colitis, after a splenectomy, or valvular heart disease. If you have a temperature above 99.5 F, you may not donate.

Aspirin
See "Medications"
Birth Control
Women on oral contraceptives or using other forms of birth control are eligible to donate.
Immunization, Vaccination
Acceptable if you were vaccinated for influenza, tetanus or meningitis, providing you are symptom-free and fever-free. Includes the Tdap vaccine.
Acceptable if you received an HPV Vaccine (example, Gardasil).
Wait 4 weeks after immunizations for German Measles (Rubella), MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella), Chicken Pox and Shingles.
Wait 2 weeks after immunizations for Red Measles (Rubeola), Mumps, Polio (by mouth), and Yellow Fever vaccine.
Wait 21 days after immunization for hepatitis B as long as you are not given the immunization for exposure to hepatitis B.
Smallpox vaccination and did not develop complications
Wait 8 weeks (56 days) from the date of having a smallpox vaccination as long as you have had no complications. Complications may include skin reactions beyond the vaccination site or general illness related to the vaccination.
Smallpox vaccination and developed complications
Wait 14 days after all vaccine complications have resolved or 8 weeks (56 days) from the date of having had the smallpox vaccination whichever is the longer period of time. You should discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation. Complications may include skin reactions beyond the vaccination site or general illness related to the vaccination.
Smallpox vaccination – close contact with someone who has had the smallpox vaccine in the last eight weeks and you did not develop any skin lesions or other symptoms.
Eligible to donate.
Smallpox vaccination – close contact with someone who has had the vaccine in the last eight weeks and you have since developed skin lesions or symptoms.
Wait 8 weeks (56 days) from the date of the first skin lesion or sore. You should discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation. Complications may include skin reactions or general illness related to the exposure.
Insulin (Bovine)
Donors with diabetes who since 1980, ever used bovine (beef) insulin made from cattle from the United Kingdom are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about variant CJD, or 'mad cow' disease. Learn more about variant CJD and blood donation.
Medications
In almost all cases, medications will not disqualify you as a blood donor. Your eligibility will be based on the reason that the medication was prescribed. As long as the condition is under control and you are healthy, blood donation is usually permitted.

Over-the-counter oral homeopathic medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements are acceptable. There are a handful of drugs that are of special significance in blood donation. Persons on these drugs have waiting periods following their last dose before they can donate blood:

Accutane, Amnesteem, Absorica, Claravis, Myorisan, Sotret or Zenatane (isotretinoin), Proscar (finasteride), and Propecia (finasteride) - wait 1 month from the last dose.
Avodart or Jalyn (dutasteride) - wait 6 months from the last dose.
Aspirin, no waiting period for donating whole blood. However you must wait 2 days (3 days if you donate in New York State) after taking aspirin or any medication containing aspirin before donating platelets by apheresis.
Effient (prasugrel) and Brilinta (ticagrelor)- no waiting period for donating whole blood. However you must wait 7 days after taking this medication before donating platelets by apheresis.
Feldene (piroxicam), no waiting period for donating whole blood. However you must wait 2 days after taking Feldene (piroxicam) before donating platelets by apheresis.
Arixtra (fondaparinux), Coumadin, Warfilone, Jantoven (warfarin) and Heparin, are prescription blood thinners- you should not donate since your blood will not clot normally. If your doctor discontinues your treatment with blood thinners, wait 7 days before returning to donate.
Fragmin (dalteparin), Eliquis (apixaban), Pradaxa (dabigatran),Savaysa (edoxaban), Xarelto (rivaroxaban),and Lovenox (enoxaparin) are also prescription blood thinners- you should not donate since your blood will not clot normally. If your doctor discontinues your treatment with these blood thinners, wait 2 days before returning to donate.
Other prescription blood thinners not listed, call [login to see] to speak with an eligibility specialist about your individual situation.
Hepatitis B Immune Globulin – given for exposure to hepatitis, wait 12 months after exposure to hepatitis.
Human pituitary-derived growth hormone at any time - you are not eligible to donate blood.
Plavix (clopidogrel), Ticlid (ticlopidine) and Zontivity (vorapaxar) - no waiting period for donating whole blood. However you must wait 14 days after taking this medication before donating platelets by apheresis.
Soriatane (acitretin) – wait 3 years.
Tegison (etretinate) at any time – you are not eligible to donate blood.
Erivedge (vismodegib) – wait 2 years.
Aubagio (teriflunomide) – wait 2 years.

Unable to Give Blood?
You can help people facing emergencies by making a financial donation to support the Red Cross’s greatest needs. Your gift enables the Red Cross to ensure an ongoing blood supply, provide humanitarian support to families in need and prepare communities by teaching lifesaving skills. Make a financial gift today.

General Health Considerations
Allergy, Stuffy Nose, Itchy Eyes, Dry Cough
Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth.
Cold, Flu
Wait if you have a fever or a productive cough (bringing up phlegm)
Wait if you do not feel well on the day of donation.
Wait until you have completed antibiotic treatment for sinus, throat or lung infection.
Donation Intervals
Wait at least 8 weeks between whole blood (standard) donations.
Wait at least 7 days between platelet (pheresis) donations.
Wait at least 16 weeks between Power Red (automated) donations.
Weight/Height
You must weigh at least 110 lbs to be eligible for blood donation for your own safety. Students who donate at high school drives and donors 18 years of age or younger must also meet additional height and weight requirements for whole blood donation (applies to girls shorter than 5'6" and boys shorter than 5').

Blood volume is determined by body weight and height. Individuals with low blood volumes may not tolerate the removal of the required volume of blood given with whole blood donation. There is no upper weight limit as long as your weight is not higher than the weight limit of the donor bed/lounge you are using. You can discuss any upper weight limitations of beds and lounges with your local health historian.

Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility
Allergies
Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth.
Asthma
Acceptable as long as you do not have any limitations on daily activities and are not having difficulty breathing at the time of donation and you otherwise feel well. Medications for asthma do not disqualify you from donating.

Bleeding Condition
If you have a history of bleeding problems, you will be asked additional questions. If your blood does not clot normally, you should not donate since you may have excessive bleeding where the needle was placed. For the same reason, you should not donate if you are taking any "blood thinner" such as:
Atrixa (fondaparinux)
Coumadin (warfarin)
Eliquis (apixaban)
Fragmin (dalteparin)
Heparin
Jantoven (warfarin)
Lovenox (enoxaparin)
Pradaxa (dabigatran)
Savaysa (edoxaban)
Warfilone (warfarin)
Xarelto (rivaroxaban)

If you are on aspirin, it is OK to donate whole blood. However, you must be off of aspirin for at least 2 days (3 days if you donate in New York state) in order to donate platelets by apheresis. Donors with clotting disorder from Factor V who are not on anticoagulants are eligible to donate; however, all others must be evaluated by the health historian at the collection center.
Blood Pressure (High or Low)
High Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as your blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you from donating.

Low Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as you feel well when you come to donate, and your blood pressure is at least 90/50 (systolic/diastolic).

Cancer
Eligibility depends on the type of cancer and treatment history. If you had leukemia or lymphoma, including Hodgkin’s Disease and other cancers of the blood, you are not eligible to donate. Other types of cancer are acceptable if the cancer has been treated successfully and it has been more than 12 months since treatment was completed and there has been no cancer recurrence in this time. Lower risk in-situ cancers including squamous or basal cell cancers of the skin that have been completely removed do not require a 12 month waiting period.

Precancerous conditions of the uterine cervix do not disqualify you from donation if the abnormality has been treated successfully. You should discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation.

Chronic Illnesses
Most chronic illnesses are acceptable as long as you feel well, the condition is under control, and you meet all other eligibility requirements.
CJD, vCJD, Mad Cow Disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant or human pituitary growth hormone, you are not eligible to donate. Those who have a blood relative who had Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease are also not eligible to donate. Learn more about CJD.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD); "Mad Cow Disease"

See under Travel Outside of U.S. Learn more about vCJD and blood donation.

Unable to Give Blood?
You can help people facing emergencies by making a financial donation to support the Red Cross’s greatest needs. Your gift enables the Red Cross to ensure an ongoing blood supply, provide humanitarian support to families in need and prepare communities by teaching lifesaving skills. Make a financial gift today.
Diabetes
Diabetics who are well controlled on insulin or oral medications are eligible to donate.
Heart Disease
In general , acceptable as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated, have no current (within the last 6 months) heart related symptoms such as chest pain and have no limitations or restrictions on your normal daily activities.

Wait at least 6 months following an episode of angina.

Wait at least 6 months following a heart attack.

Wait at least 6 months after bypass surgery or angioplasty.

Wait at least 6 months after a change in your heart condition that resulted in a change to your medications

If you have a pacemaker, you may donate as long as your pulse is between 50 and 100 beats per minute and you meet the other heart disease criteria. You should discuss your particular situation with your personal healthcare provider and the health historian at the time of donation.
Heart Murmur, Heart Valve Disorder
Acceptable if you have a heart murmur as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated and have not had symptoms in the last 6 months, and have no restrictions on your normal daily activities.
Hemochromatosis (Hereditary)
American Red Cross does not accept individuals with hemochromatosis as blood donors.
Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Blood Count
In order to donate blood, a woman must have a hemoglobin level of at least 12.5 g/dL, and a man must have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.0 g/dL. For all donors, the hemoglobin level can be no greater than 20 g/dL.
Separate requirements for hemoglobin level apply for Power Red.
Hepatitis, Jaundice
If you have signs or symptoms of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) caused by a virus, or unexplained jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin), you are not eligible to donate blood. If you ever tested positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C, at any age, you are not eligible to donate, even if you were never sick or jaundiced from the infection.

Hepatitis Exposure
If you live with or have had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis, you must wait 12 months after the last contact.

Persons who have been detained or incarcerated in a facility (juvenile detention, lockup, jail, or prison) for more than 72 consecutive hours (3 days) are deferred for 12 months from the date of last occurrence. This includes work release programs and weekend incarceration. These persons are at higher risk for exposure to infectious diseases.

Wait 12 months after receiving a blood transfusion (unless it was your own "autologous" blood), non-sterile needle stick or exposure to someone else's blood.

HIV, AIDS
You should not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV.

You are at risk for getting infected if you:
have ever used needles to take any drugs, steroids, or anything not prescribed by your doctor
are a male who has had sexual contact with another male, in the last 12 months
have ever taken money, drugs or other payment for sex
have had sexual contact in the past 12 months with anyone described above
You should not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Fever
Enlarged lymph glands
Sore throat
Rash

Hypertension, High Blood Pressure
See "Blood Pressure (High)"
Infections
If you have a fever or an active infection, wait until the infection has resolved completely before donating blood.
Wait until finished taking antibiotics for an infection (bacterial or viral). Wait 10 days after the last antibiotic injection for an infection.
Those who have had infections with Chagas Disease, Babesiosis or Leishmaniasis are not eligible to donate.

See also Antibiotics, Hepatitis, HIV, Syphilis/Gonorrhea, and Tuberculosis.
Malaria
Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and may be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria.

If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, we may require a waiting period before you can donate blood.

Wait 3 years after completing treatment for malaria.
Wait 12 months after returning from a trip to an area where malaria is found.
Wait 3 years after living more than 5 years in a country or countries where malaria is found. An additional waiting period of 3 years may be required if you have traveled to an are where malaria is found if you have not lived a consecutive 3 years in a country or countries where malaria is not found.
If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation.
Please, come prepared to discuss your travel details when you donate. You may download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call [login to see] to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel.
If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:

What countries did you visit?
Where did you travel while in this country?
Did you leave the city or resort at any time? If yes, where did you go?
What mode of transportation did you use?
How long did you stay?
What date did you return to the U.S.?
Sexually Transmitted Disease
See Sexually Transmitted Diseases below.
Sickle Cell
Acceptable if you have sickle cell trait. Those with sickle cell disease are not eligible to donate.
Skin Disease, Rash, Acne
Acceptable as long as the skin over the vein to be used to collect blood is not affected. If the skin disease has become infected, wait until the infection has cleared before donating. Taking antibiotics to control acne does not disqualify you from donating.
Tuberculosis
If you have active tuberculosis or are being treated for active tuberculosis you should not donate. Acceptable if you have a positive skin test or blood test, but no active tuberculosis and are NOT taking antibiotics. If you are receiving antibiotics for a positive TB skin test or blood test only or if you are being treated for a tuberculosis infection, wait until treatment is successfully completed before donating.

Medical Treatments that Affect Eligibility
Acupuncture
Donors who have undergone acupuncture treatments are acceptable.
Blood Transfusion
Wait for 12 months after receiving a blood transfusion from another person in the United States.

You may not donate if you received a blood transfusion since 1980 in the United Kingdom or France (The United Kingdom consists of the following countries: England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Gibraltar or Falkland Islands). This requirement is related to concerns about variant CJD, or 'mad cow' disease. Learn more about variant CJD and blood donation.
Dental Procedures and Oral Surgery
Acceptable after dental procedures as long as there is no infection present. Wait until finishing antibiotics for a dental infection. Wait for 3 days after having oral surgery.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Women on hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis are eligible to donate.
Organ/Tissue Transplants
Wait 12 months after receiving any type of organ transplant from another person. If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant, you are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about the brain disease, Creutzfeld-Jacob Disease (CJD). Learn more about CJD and blood donation.
If you ever received a transplant of animal organs or of living animal tissue - you are not eligible to donate blood. Non-living animal tissues such as bone, tendon, or heart valves are acceptable.

Unable to Give Blood?
You can help people facing emergencies by making a financial donation to support the Red Cross’s greatest needs. Your gift enables the Red Cross to ensure an ongoing blood supply, provide humanitarian support to families in need and prepare communities by teaching lifesaving skills. Make a financial gift today.

Surgery
It is not necessarily surgery but the underlying condition that precipitated the surgery that requires evaluation before donation. Evaluation is on a case by case basis. You should discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation.

Lifestyle and Life Events
Age
You must be at least 17 years old to donate to the general blood supply, or 16 years old with parental/guardian consent, if allowed by state law. Learn more about the reasons for a lower age limit. There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your activities.
Donor Deferral for Men Who Have Had Sex With Men (MSM)
On December 21, 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued final guidance for deferral criteria for men who have had sex with men (MSM). AABB, America's Blood Centers and the Red Cross support the FDA's decision to change the MSM blood donation policy from a lifetime deferral to a one-year deferral and additionally for the purposes of blood donation gender is self-identified and self-reported, which is relevant to the transgender community. This policy change aligns the MSM donor deferral period with those for other activities that may pose a similar risk of transfusion-transmissable infections.

First-time male donors may now be eligible to donate blood if they have not had sex with another man in more than 12 months. All additional blood donation eligibility criteria will apply.

Donors who were previously deferred under the prior MSM policy will be evaluated for reinstatement. It is important to understand that the donor reinstatement process involves potentially thousands of donors, and it will take time.

Individuals who have been deferred for MSM in the past may initiate donor reinstatement beginning January 2017 by contacting the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at [login to see] . Individuals with questions about their donation eligibility can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at [login to see] . We appreciate the patience of our valued donors as we continue to diligently work to implement these changes so that more people can give blood for those in need.

More information about the FDA policy is available for LGBTQ+ donors.

Intravenous Drug Use
Those who have ever used IV drugs that were not prescribed by a physician are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis and HIV. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation.
Piercing (ears, body), Electrolysis
Acceptable as long as the instruments used were single-use equipment. Wait 12 months if a piercing was performed using a reusable gun or any reusable instrument.

Wait 12 months if there is any question whether or not the instruments used were single-use equipment.. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation.

Pregnancy, Nursing
Persons who are pregnant are not eligible to donate. Wait 6 weeks after giving birth.

Unable to Give Blood?
You can help people facing emergencies by making a financial donation to support the Red Cross’s greatest needs. Your gift enables the Red Cross to ensure an ongoing blood supply, provide humanitarian support to families in need and prepare communities by teaching lifesaving skills. Make a financial gift today.
Tattoo
Wait 12 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities. Currently, the only states that DO NOT regulate tattoo facilities are: District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation.

A tattoo is acceptable if the tattoo was applied by a state-regulated entity using sterile needles and ink that is not reused. Cosmetic tattoos applied in a licensed establishment in a regulated state using sterile needles and ink that is not reused is acceptable. You should discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation.

Sexually Transmitted Disease
Wait 12 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea.

Acceptable if it has been more than 12 months since you completed treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea.

Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements.

Venereal Diseases
Wait 12 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea.

Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements.
Syphilis/Gonorrhea
Wait 12 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea.
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-topic

FYI Maj William W. 'Bill' Price Capt Seid Waddell Capt Tom Brown 1stSgt Eugene Harless MSG Andrew White SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4"SCPO Morris Ramsey SGT Michael Thorin SGT Private RallyPoint Member SGT Robert George SGT John " Mac " McConnell SP5 Mark Kuzinski SP5 Robert Ruck SP5 Dave (Shotgun) Shockley SPC Margaret Higgins SrA Christopher Wright Maj Marty Hogan CPL Craig Cheltenham

Blood Donor Eligibility: Medications & Health | American Red Cross

Learn about the eligibility requirements for blood donors, including age restrictions, medication restrictions health requirements and more.

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made Mar 11 at 2018 9:03 PM

SCPO Morris Ramsey — Sun, 11 Mar 2018 21:03:32 -0400

LTC Stephen F. I am a colon cancer survivor and was told for 20 years I could not donate. Now they will take it. But I cannot be an organ donor. My doctor told me, to not worry about donating blood, my biggest responsibility was to myself. She said if there was an emergency need for my blood B-, then I should donate. Have not donated to the Red Cross in years for apparent reasons

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Mar 11 at 2018 10:56 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sun, 11 Mar 2018 22:56:12 -0400

After i returned from Viet Nam in 1969 I wasn't allowed to donate blood. There were so many types of illness and less than sanitary conditions in much of that country at that time. I never even had a cold the entire year there though but with all the shots I got before going I doubt there was any disease that wasn't covered !

Response by SGM Frank Marsh made Mar 12 at 2018 11:19 AM

SGM Frank Marsh — Mon, 12 Mar 2018 11:19:13 -0400

in 65 in the far east I got Hep B, occupational hazard as a medic. even though I have converted and have strong antibodies against Hep B, I can no longer donate.

Response by MSgt Shawn Wood made Mar 19 at 2018 9:03 AM

MSgt Shawn Wood — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 09:03:42 -0400

We got an experimental shot called the cocktail before we left for the first gulf war

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2018 7:28 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 19:28:36 -0400

Desert storm illness. :(

Response by LTC Richard Pendleton made Mar 21 at 2018 1:08 AM

LTC Richard Pendleton — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:08:14 -0400

Those stationed in Wester Europe during the Chernobl meltdown were barred from donating blood. This was due to exposure to radioactive fallout..As far as I know, this ban is still in effect. My family and I were stationed in West Germany from 1985 thruthru 1989.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2018 7:25 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 19:25:16 -0400

HIV/AIDs positive is indefinite deferral per Armed Services Blood Program SOP.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2018 1:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 13:29:35 -0400

Gelnhausen 1988-1990. All this time I thought I was just upset by the state of American politics, or lack thereof. Turns out the Cook had the last laugh on all of moo. No wonder I like drinking milk so much.

Response by SFC Randy Fisher made Apr 18 at 2018 9:28 AM

SFC Randy Fisher — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 09:28:53 -0400

I was stationed in Germany from '85-'89. To my understanding our commissary system sourced some fresh food items: dairy, meats, produce... within Europe, some of which came from Great Britain, which at that time had the problem of their livestock was infected with Mad Cow Disease. I donated blood previously, but after returning stateside I was told I could no longer donate due to my possible exposure from possibly consuming meat products from animals exposed to Mad Cow Disease. Since Mad Cow Disease is communicable to humans I was told I was possibly exposed, ...hence donating blood is no longer an option...

Response by CPO Michael Callegri made Apr 18 at 2018 7:14 PM

CPO Michael Callegri — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 19:14:16 -0400

I'm also apart of this Brigade. I was not stationed in Germany, but London and also can no longer donate blood. Donating blood was something I used to do regularly, even while in the Military. Now I just blame it on the European Cows. Darn cows.

Response by CW5 Bradford ("Boog") Powell made Apr 19 at 2018 12:09 AM

CW5 Bradford ("Boog") Powell — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 00:09:11 -0400

I too was in the FRG from 1980 thru 1983...Sadly were are "Guilty by association" and barred from blood donations. I was up to over a gallon and a half (tough to do for a pilot, we're not supposed to be "regular donors" so I always gave before I went on leave or long weekends/holiday breaks) when the Red Cross put the kibosh on my blood donations (about the 1993-95 timeframe or so). Oddly enough from what I am lead to understand, that the real problem was centralized in the U.K., in farmers fields/cattle, not in any mess halls in Bavaria. Be that as it may, the Red Cross has lost a lot of donors who willingly gave as just another "Duty to their fellow man".
I'd love to be able to give again but I'll not lie on a form to do so. I find it "Odd" that HIV infected have been cleared but then, nothing surprises me much anymore! If the "Mad Cow" risk can be tested out, I'll be the first to line up to drop a pint. That is unless I fail the test, I am a bit Crazy/"Mad" and I do love eating beef so I may fail that "Mad About Cow" litmus test! (Ha Ho, Ho Ho!!!)

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Apr 19 at 2018 10:35 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 10:35:55 -0400

I take medications; such that unfortunately, I cannot donate blood. I will be donating my organs; after I pass away.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Apr 19 at 2018 1:06 PM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 13:06:52 -0400

You can see by the numbers how frustrating this topic is for most of us. Thanks for posting!

Response by David Ostrow made Apr 23 at 2018 3:23 AM

David Ostrow — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 03:23:46 -0400

I’ve been healthy non-detectable living with HIV since Dec, 1982. Both gay/bisexual men and anybody with HIV or Hep C infected are barred from donating blood or organs for transplants. Theoretically, an infected person can donate post mortem tissues for transplantation into recipients with the same ID profile, it varies from State to State and whether there are enough donor-recipient pairs that are immunological compatibles.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2018 7:32 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 19:32:50 -0400

Pasture Rage! Those cows are angry. No blood, no marrow, no nothing. DO NOT Donate....I don't bother even trying. Europe for more than 6 months in the 1990s and 2000s.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 24 at 2018 10:11 AM

PO1 John Miller — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 10:11:04 -0400

Supposedly I can't donate blood because I was stationed in England during the late 90's/early 2000's and am at risk for Hoof and Mouth Disease. I also visited Cambodia during my 2011/2012 deployment and had to take anti-Malaria medication and supposedly that also disqualifies one from donating.

It's been a while since I've tried to donate though, so I'm not sure if my information is correct.

Response by SGT Keith Wise made Apr 26 at 2018 9:10 AM

SGT Keith Wise — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 09:10:59 -0400

My best friend from those days in Germany just informed me of this. I have not been able to donate blood for decades due to an experimental malaria drug given to us in Thailand back in the mid 80's which has caused me to have to take blood thinners for over 20 years. Now I hear about this. Were we all just unknowing participants in government experiments? I worry now about two of my sons that are active duty (USMC and GaNG).

Response by SrA A.A. Hall made Apr 28 at 2018 9:23 AM

SrA A.A. Hall — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 09:23:10 -0400

You can register @ your local VA & you'll be able to donate. I'm registered, because I have a rear blood type.

Response by LTC Lee Rials made May 2 at 2018 3:20 PM

LTC Lee Rials — Wed, 02 May 2018 15:20:29 -0400

What is really maddening (pun intended) about this--when Landstuhl runs low of blood, they go out and buy it on the local (i.e., European) market. So, we have to protect civilians, but Soldiers have to take the risk! I am also betting that not a single example of the at-risk population passing on Mad Cow disease; at least I've never heard of it.

Response by Cpl Scott McCarroll made May 8 at 2018 3:36 PM

Cpl Scott McCarroll — Tue, 08 May 2018 15:36:28 -0400

LTC Stephen F. I am unsure where I got Hep-C, but I found out from when I went into a donation site and got a letter in the mail explaining that I was infected and would not be able to ever donate either blood or organs. However I am now virus free, having completed 16 week treatment plan for Harvona. Hope I spelled it right LMBO. Still can't donate anything but I am lucky that I could still be cured.

Response by SPC Jovani Daviu made May 8 at 2018 10:29 PM

SPC Jovani Daviu — Tue, 08 May 2018 22:29:12 -0400

I submitted blood at basic training and after analysis I was informed that I couldn't donate. I was never given a reason why. I only have one small tatoo of the libra scales on my right forearm. They took blood from me stating that the tatoo wasn't a problem. This is a big mystery in the back of my head to this day.

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made May 9 at 2018 4:27 PM

CWO2 James Mathews — Wed, 09 May 2018 16:27:37 -0400

I used to give blood regularly, but some years ago, I was suddenly told by a Red Cross worker that my blood was not longer accepted, but she gave no reason, even though I asked. In the last three years since my heart surgery, I have been on a blood -thinner medication which will not allow me to give blood, or so I am told. My trust in the Medical world has deteriorated considerably over the years because of because of many stupid nurses, who did not know as much as I did about their job or responsibilities, doctors who lied or outright insulted me, or surgeons who messed up the job they were supposed to be doing with skill and purpose. Nowadays, since leaving the Navy, I am very selective about the medical personnel I trust and believe! Most are pretty good, a few are excellent, and many are not to be trusted in my view!

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made May 9 at 2018 4:51 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Wed, 09 May 2018 16:51:41 -0400

was exposed to Hep C by a partner who did not disclose it to me prior to intimate relations - yes I utilized the proper precautions, but became disqualified for blood donations

Response by PO2 Steven Michaeli made May 9 at 2018 7:09 PM

PO2 Steven Michaeli — Wed, 09 May 2018 19:09:44 -0400

I got my three gallon donation pin and was then told I couponing longer donate. Stationed in England

Response by PVT Mark Brown made May 10 at 2018 12:29 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Thu, 10 May 2018 12:29:55 -0400

I did not know I was Hep-C positive until about 15 years ago when I first started with the VA medical care. At that time I was tested for Hep-C and was found to be positive. I learned from my doctor that under normal medical protocol civilian doctors do not request the Hep-C test when setting up blood and urine tests. Therefore, I had never been tested until around 1999. I was never stationed in Germany, I spent my entire time in the military in Korea (26 months) other than BCT and AIT. Cause of the infection is unknown.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made May 11 at 2018 12:54 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Fri, 11 May 2018 00:54:53 -0400

I was infected with Hep B in a blood-borne pathogen haz mat spill.

Response by TSgt Rodney Bidinger made May 15 at 2018 3:48 PM

TSgt Rodney Bidinger — Tue, 15 May 2018 15:48:45 -0400

Was stationed at RAF Chicksands, England, UK for 81-90. All through the "Mad Cow" time period.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 5:17 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 May 2018 17:17:06 -0400

I have a history of Cancer (TWICE treated for it).

Response by LTC John Griscom made May 16 at 2018 7:07 AM

LTC John Griscom — Wed, 16 May 2018 07:07:44 -0400

I'm like you; used to donate every two months. Germany 1972-1981. Had worked to five-gallon status.

Response by SGT Steven Eberly made May 16 at 2018 8:50 AM

SGT Steven Eberly — Wed, 16 May 2018 08:50:34 -0400

I was station in Germany from 1978 until 1985. Then as a civilian I live there from 1987 until 2009. So I can't give blood anymore now.

Response by SGT Charles H. Hawes made May 16 at 2018 10:47 AM

SGT Charles H. Hawes — Wed, 16 May 2018 10:47:26 -0400

It's sad to know that you and many others like myself are restricted because of mad cow disease and we can't do anything about it.

Response by SCPO Clark Gertner made May 16 at 2018 4:16 PM

SCPO Clark Gertner — Wed, 16 May 2018 16:16:49 -0400

I am a 3 striker: I was in Nam in the mid-late 60s and, therefore, unable to donate blood. I was in Central and South America in the years after and, therefore, unable to donate blood. I contracted Hepatitis, probably in SE Asia and, therefore am unable to donate blood. There are many reasons for being dropped from donor lists. With some conditions, you can still donate platelets. I was really bummed over being unable to donate any longer but the blood supply's purity is more important than my feelings.

Response by LTC Jeff Shearer made May 16 at 2018 5:24 PM

LTC Jeff Shearer — Wed, 16 May 2018 17:24:09 -0400

I am not sure what all I have taken that prevented me from giving blood. Rabies, Hep A, B, C, D, E, F G hahaha I know rabies was one of several. I give blood now on a pretty regular basis, I give platelets sometimes as well.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made May 17 at 2018 11:47 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Thu, 17 May 2018 23:47:42 -0400

Was both mad and disappointed when RC issued that edict all those years ago...my opinion is that they really screwed themselves on this issue.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made May 18 at 2018 2:26 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Fri, 18 May 2018 14:26:03 -0400

Thankfully, I was not stationed in Europe or anywhere else that restricted my ability to give blood. I still travel outside the country and have to answer the questionnaire every time. It is getting harder to give blood no matter who you are.

For those of you who were stationed in places where you are no longer eligible, thanks for wanting to donate, but remember, it is better to not give than infect someone due to not knowing for sure. The only way we will know for sure is by autopsy and that is way too late!

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made May 18 at 2018 11:36 PM

LTJG Richard Bruce — Fri, 18 May 2018 23:36:12 -0400

Suggest you register as a bone marrow donor.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 11:38 AM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 May 2018 11:38:15 -0400

Gay.

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made May 31 at 2018 2:41 PM

SPC Sheila Lewis — Thu, 31 May 2018 14:41:35 -0400

I was in Germany in the 1980's...

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2018 3:18 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 May 2018 15:18:37 -0400

So I have been trying to donate blood on and off in my military career. You are not allowed to donate blood for one year after a deployment so for six total years (3 Deployed, 3 one past deployment.) Also most recently I tried to donate blood because I have been back for over 24 months from a deployment, I was told because I spent time in Germany as a kid in the '80s plus as an adult I am never authorized to donate blood again. I does seem to depend on who you try to donate through but I have not been able to donate blood since 2006 for one reason or another.

Response by SPC Kirk Williams made May 31 at 2018 6:51 PM

SPC Kirk Williams — Thu, 31 May 2018 18:51:47 -0400

I served with 1st ID during Desert Storm and have issues. I was told after many years of donating after service, that I can no longer donate. Maybe its becasue they know there is something wrong. Gulf War Illness is real after all. But they just can't seem to make the leap that the blood collectors are making and actually admit it by giving veterans a rating at VA.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2018 6:55 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 May 2018 18:55:42 -0400

There is some positive news. Although the technology is still young, there is progress in the development of methods to detect misfolded proteins in the bloodstream. If the technique can be refined to an acceptable success rate and adequately automated, thus reducing costs, then perhaps Soldiers like us can give blood in a few years

Response by PO3 John Caulfield made May 31 at 2018 8:16 PM

PO3 John Caulfield — Thu, 31 May 2018 20:16:41 -0400

I was told by American Red Cross and our local Mo. Valley Blood ctr. Beause of being in and eating cow back in 92 that I'm a no go.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 1 at 2018 12:45 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Fri, 01 Jun 2018 00:45:41 -0400

Thanks to 1SG Private RallyPoint Member for alerting me that "there is progress in the development of methods to detect misfolded proteins in the bloodstream" I did research and found the following at an NIH site.
As this article informs us there has been progress in control groups testing of "developed blood tests to detect prion." The article states that there are plans to "validate their methods using larger samples sizes."
Hopefully this process will be successful to detect whether or not we have been infected by Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant (vCJD); "Mad Cow Disease."

"Prion diseases are a group of rare, fatal brain diseases that affect animals and humans. They are caused by normally harmless proteins that become abnormal and form clumps in the brain. One form, called variant CJD (vCJD), is associated with eating meat from cattle infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy, commonly known as “mad cow” disease.

People may have vCJD for years before symptoms—such as depression, hallucinations, moving difficulties, and dementia—appear. These “silent” carriers have small amounts of prions in their bloodstreams and can transmit the disease to others via blood transfusions. The only current method to diagnose vCJD is to perform a biopsy or a postmortem analysis of brain tissue. Thus, a noninvasive test to detect prions in blood is a medical priority.

Two research groups recently developed blood tests to detect prions. The results appeared in a pair of papers published on December 21, 2016, in Science Translational Medicine. One of the groups, led by Dr. Claudio Soto of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, was funded in part by NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS).

Prions are scarce in the bloodstream and difficult to measure. Both teams developed methods to amplify the prions in blood samples using a technique called protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA). PMCA relies on the characteristic nature of prions to cause certain healthy proteins to clump abnormally and convert into prions.

Soto’s group first combined healthy proteins with known concentrations of infectious vCJD prions. They intermittently agitated these mixtures with sound waves. The agitation helped break the prions into smaller chunks. This increased the number of prions that could then convert healthy proteins into prions. Using this method, the scientists were able to detect more than a billion-fold dilution of prions using an anti-prion antibody.

The scientists next tested whether the technique could be used to detect prions in blood samples from 14 people with vCJD and 153 controls. The controls included healthy people as well as people with different neurological or neurodegenerative disorders, including sporadic CJD, the most common form of CJD. The assay flagged all the vCJD samples correctly.

In the second paper, a French research group described a similar approach testing a blinded panel of blood samples. That team identified 18 vCJD patients in a group of 256 samples.

“Our findings, which need to be confirmed in further studies, suggest that our method of detection could be useful for the noninvasive diagnosis of this disease in pre-symptomatic individuals,” Soto says. Early diagnosis would allow potential therapies to be tested before substantial brain damage occurred. This technique would also allow blood contaminated with prions to be detected and removed from the blood supply.

Both teams are now working to validate their methods using larger samples sizes.

―by Anita Ramanathan
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/new-method-accurately-detects-prions-blood

FYI COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC Stephen C. LTC Private RallyPoint Member Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen Lt Col Charlie Brown Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. Maj William W. 'Bill' Price Maj Marty Hogan SCPO Morris Ramsey SSG John Ross SGT Mark Halmrast Sgt Randy Wilber Sgt John H. SGT Gregory Lawritson CPL Dave Hoover SPC Margaret Higgins SrA Christopher Wright Cpl Gabriel F.

New method accurately detects prions in blood

Response by TSgt Larry Johnson made Jun 3 at 2018 7:34 PM

TSgt Larry Johnson — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 19:34:36 -0400

I had to wait 5 years because of Malaria drugs and for other reasons because I went to Ethiopia and some other countries that had HIV and something else I don't remember. After the time was up, I started donating again. I was an on-call donor before I joined the Air Force, so I loved donating blood. Well, after a few years in the civilian world, I was no longer able to donate because of Mad Cow. I called Washington DC after 911 and talked with whatever department controls blood donations, and the guy on the phone said that yeah, the chances are almost none existent, but since it is such a small population of people, why take the chance. I was upset, and said that I wanted to donate for the military guys that were sill serving. He said that things may change in the future. Maybe someday. Really pissed me off.

Response by SPC Robert Skinner made Jun 6 at 2018 12:58 AM

SPC Robert Skinner — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 00:58:03 -0400

I was put on the list as being a possible Mad Cow carrier only because I was stationed in West Germany 1983-1985. It is 2018.......Seems they could have this figured out without having to remove our heads.

Response by SFC Randy Purham made Jun 6 at 2018 3:29 AM

SFC Randy Purham — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 03:29:57 -0400

My deployments to Iraq (3x) prevented me from donating blood. Due to the Anthrax injections and other vaccines given. I had to wait a whole calendar year before I was able to donate.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2018 8:52 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 08:52:15 -0400

I was stationed at Wharton Barracks, Heilbronn, GE from 86 to 88 and can not give blood, wish they would develop a test for the mad cow because donating was something I had been very proud of doing

Response by SPC Daniel Rankin made Jun 17 at 2018 11:07 PM

SPC Daniel Rankin — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 23:07:47 -0400

Iron poor blood, didn't slow me down but prevented me from giving blood.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Jun 26 at 2018 1:57 AM

SSgt Michael Cox — Tue, 26 Jun 2018 01:57:39 -0400

I haven’t been able to donate blood since I was stationed in England in 2000 because of mad cow, foot and mouth, being stationed in Korea, and finally getting cancer from the burn pits in 2015.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Jul 19 at 2018 1:30 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 13:30:09 -0400

I am in the same boat having served in Germany in the late 70s to early 80s. I am also O- and used to give blood frequently. Still if the powers that be feel there is a risk in accepting blood from us I am comfortable with that if it helps to assures that the blood supply is as safe as possible. I believe we can still donate platelets just no whole blood

Response by SGT Dennis Statler made Jul 25 at 2018 12:43 PM

SGT Dennis Statler — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 12:43:40 -0400

Served in US Army '85-'88. Been rejected for 30 years:(

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jul 28 at 2018 10:35 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 10:35:32 -0400

Hello Sir. I would encourage you to double check. I too was in Germany during that period, however they updated the time period in the 90’s. And then it wasn’t military DFACS it was in the economy. Of course I do not recall anything exact regarding the timeline but the Red Cross should know.

My post was to be similar, my family and I ate Tar-Tar in the mid 90’s, we had no warning or notice from our time in the 80’s. On another note that strikes me, Europeans of that era donate to blood banks all the time, including the Red Cross. Oh well, who knows. Thank you for your service.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2018 6:00 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 18:00:56 -0400

Was also told that we were slso served Horse meat in mess halls in late 70's and mad cow in 80's that I am not elegable to donate even plasma. Had been donating periodacly till hurricane Katrina and at that time was informed that I was not allowed due to service in European theater

Response by MSgt Stephanie Robinson made Aug 9 at 2018 2:26 PM

MSgt Stephanie Robinson — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 14:26:17 -0400

stationed in Germany 79-82

Response by 1LT John Heddens made Aug 14 at 2018 12:31 PM

1LT John Heddens — Tue, 14 Aug 2018 12:31:58 -0400

Hookers!

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Aug 20 at 2018 1:50 PM

PO1 Kevin Arnold — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 13:50:31 -0400

Just going overseas and getting all those shots required before getting deployed.

Response by SPC David Hoover made Aug 22 at 2018 3:54 PM

SPC David Hoover — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 15:54:50 -0400

one must be a service-related disability

Response by PO2 Mike Shorey made Aug 27 at 2018 11:33 AM

PO2 Mike Shorey — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 11:33:59 -0400

It’s not just the 80s. I can’t donate because I was in Italy from 94-97.

Response by SFC Dagmar Riley made Sep 3 at 2018 10:38 PM

SFC Dagmar Riley — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 22:38:02 -0400

This really makes me wonder why all of a sudden after all these years it’s such a priority? Did they finally figure out that a lot of us had already donated a lot of blood possibly with the disease and the new people we infected later became donors as well in the US and were never stopped from donating because they had never been in Europe? Hmmm, makes you wonder.

Response by CPO Mark Robinson made Sep 3 at 2018 10:46 PM

CPO Mark Robinson — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 22:46:46 -0400

In 1984 I had a liberty call in Kenya and due to having to take pre and post malaria pills I was not eligible for one year.

Response by SA Lars Larson made Sep 8 at 2018 9:12 PM

SA Lars Larson — Sat, 08 Sep 2018 21:12:33 -0400

I was told that I couldn't give blood because of getting malaria overseas back in 1988. Found out that the pills they were giving me to protect me from it was out of date by 20 years. I guess they were trying to use up what was leftover from Vietnam.

Response by SPC Dawn Sermons made Sep 13 at 2018 6:01 PM

SPC Dawn Sermons — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 18:01:06 -0400

I was a dependent during the 8os in Germany. Our school did not have a cafeteria so occasionally I ate at the mess hall. Also we traveled for sports and ate at different mess halls. Is this a concern for dependents as well?

Response by LTC Ben Chlapek made Sep 21 at 2018 1:09 PM

LTC Ben Chlapek — Fri, 21 Sep 2018 13:09:53 -0400

I was provided a "lifetime ban from donating blood" letter a few years ago. After donating over three gallons during my younger years (not all at once!), I was exposed to a lot of blood from a local national patient I was treating during the Contra-Sandanista conflict in Honduras/ElSalvador/Nicaragua. Alas, I developed Hep B and adding some organic shrapnel in Afghanistan, the Red Cross says "no mo." They were very firm about it and were emphatic that I don't even try or get screened any more. "Sometimes I feel I've got to * * Run away I've got to * * Get away . . . Tainted Blood."

Response by PO2 Kevin Parker made Sep 21 at 2018 11:21 PM

PO2 Kevin Parker — Fri, 21 Sep 2018 23:21:33 -0400

I wasn't allowed to donate blood for I think 10 years after Desert Storm. I'm not sure what the actual reason was. We were given Malaria pills, plus Anthrax. The also lined us up in the Hanger Bay and we went down a gauntlet of Medics giving us shots. To this day I still don't know what they were! Nothing ever showed up in my medical records! Of course those have disappeared also! So no telling what it was. After the 10 years I was able to donate again, but every so often they bring it up when I go to donate????

Response by MSgt Eugene Fielder made Sep 22 at 2018 12:02 PM

MSgt Eugene Fielder — Sat, 22 Sep 2018 12:02:45 -0400

I was stationed at RAF Alconbury UK from 1987 to1994. After I came home and was getting ready to donate blood at one of the office blood drives I found out that I could not donate blood because I had been in Germany a few times. I never used a military chowhall. I was TDY and we ate downtown. I was in northern GE. Two different places Alhlorn Ge and Jever Ge. Both German Air Bases. Now I have Polycythemia Vera(a low grade blood cancer) and TypeII Diabetes. So now I can’t donate anyway.

Response by PO1 H Gene Lawrence made Sep 22 at 2018 6:01 PM

PO1 H Gene Lawrence — Sat, 22 Sep 2018 18:01:53 -0400

Unfortunately since I am diabetic, I can’t.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Sep 24 at 2018 1:01 AM

SSG Brian G. — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 01:01:24 -0400

See I was never told Mad Cow. I was in Europe when Saddam lost his marbles and as part of VII Corps we deployed to Southwest Asia. I got out years later and gave blood for like two rounds or so with Red Cross and then suddenly I was denied because I had been stationed there and something to do with malaria or some such garbage. I used to love to give, did it every 3 months like clockwork. Now?

Response by PFC Kailana Alaniz made Sep 24 at 2018 12:55 PM

PFC Kailana Alaniz — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 12:55:21 -0400

Actually stationed in Berlin GE Jan 1990-1993. To my knowledge also blocked from donating, as up to 1990 is restricted. So an update to your 1980's stationed in Germany should be updated to include 1990.

Response by SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson made Sep 25 at 2018 2:57 PM

SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 14:57:03 -0400

Stationed in Germany from 1982 1984. No "mad-cow" issues i'm just MAD but nothing to do with anything I have ever eaten.

Response by SrA John Monette made Sep 25 at 2018 9:41 PM

SrA John Monette — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 21:41:16 -0400

Stationed in Germany 1988-1992. Mad Cow disease

Response by SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson made Sep 26 at 2018 10:38 AM

SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 10:38:04 -0400

Prior to the introduction of animals and man when Adam was tasked with naming animals there was no "Mad Cow" disease. Man kinds desire to chemically change things is the root cause. Who knows more than GOD about creation. Man's desire to act/be like GOD has caused the creation of disease and the senseless death of animals and humans. Don't mess with perfection!

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Oct 4 at 2018 8:36 PM

SGT Jim Ramge, MBA — Thu, 04 Oct 2018 20:36:07 -0400

You know, the real answer would be to simply collect and separate the blood from those millions that went through Europe during the 80s! Just think of how many different categories of munitions/HAZMAT/Chemicals, etc., that are on the market that have to be stored separately... We do better going down the Campbell’s soup island at the Commissary - just saying...

Response by CPL James Bennett made Oct 12 at 2018 7:01 AM

CPL James Bennett — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 07:01:21 -0400

I'm one.. stationed at a small detachment on a Brit Kaserne from 88-90. We ate a good number of our meals at their mess hall or from them in the field. vCJD is a horrible disease. A fellow officer in a neighboring department died from it. Wouldn't wish it on too many folks. He was an Air Force vet stationed in the UK back in the early 70's...

Response by PO2 Raven Attwood made Oct 29 at 2018 8:40 PM

PO2 Raven Attwood — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 20:40:45 -0400

I can't donate as matter of paperwork. I'm transgender, married to a cisgender man, and when I got my ID changed from "F" to "M" that magically put me in the category of "men who have had sex with other men in the past year." Even though I'm still the same person and had relations with the same partner before I transitioned. At least there's some, however remote, medical basis for the mad cow risk-based ban on donating blood.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Oct 30 at 2018 12:45 AM

PVT Mark Zehner — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 00:45:29 -0400

I have o negative and was told no? I have tattoos but no diseases!

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2018 6:43 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 02 Nov 2018 06:43:52 -0400

Me. I'm not allowed to donate blood because my Dad was stationed in Germany and the UK in the early 80's.

Response by SSG Byron Howard Sr made Nov 7 at 2018 6:09 PM

SSG Byron Howard Sr — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 18:09:30 -0500

Can't give blood or donate organs because of mad cow.

Response by CPL Sarah Keys made Nov 9 at 2018 8:23 AM

CPL Sarah Keys — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 08:23:05 -0500

As a Veteran and an Army brat who lived in Germany in the 80's, I'm just as disheartened about being unable to give blood as well. I actually work for the American Red Cross and still don't understand how they can clean HIV out of blood, yet are so worried about Mad Cow. It boggles my mind. I am glad they are moving along with the studies though.

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Nov 18 at 2018 3:22 PM

SGM Ronald Cheatom — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 15:22:55 -0500

We were told after we returned from the 'Storm, that we couldn't donate blood any more.

Response by SSG David Phetteplace made Nov 26 at 2018 10:22 AM

SSG David Phetteplace — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 10:22:55 -0500

Stationed in Italy during this time period got me removed from the blood donor list...

Response by Sgt Ron Harris made Nov 30 at 2018 7:47 PM

Sgt Ron Harris — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 19:47:58 -0500

I've never been able to give blood, even though I'm A-, a rare strain. I had polio, both legs and rt. arm, as a kid.

Response by SPC Corbin Doades made Dec 11 at 2018 7:22 AM

SPC Corbin Doades — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 07:22:00 -0500

As military beat of the 80s and 90s, we were stationed in Germany with a short stint CONUS. Because we lived there, we too cannot donate blood. Service and family members are not allowed.

Response by SPC Steven Garcia made Dec 18 at 2018 3:33 PM

SPC Steven Garcia — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 15:33:57 -0500

I can't donate blood because I bleed Army green.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jan 15 at 2019 6:37 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 18:37:46 -0500

I was stationed in Germany in the early 80s, never heard a word about mad cow's disease in beef served in chow halls. I was stationed on a radar site controllinb the central flight path corridor to Berlin. Of course this was from 1980 to 1982. AFN never put out any news about this during this time.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 7:49 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 19:49:30 -0500

I'm in the same boat, sir. I was born in Poland and lived there for the first 20 years of my life before moving to US and enlisting, which disqualifies me from donating blood. The funny thing is that (as far as I can tell) there were no reported cases of mad cow disease in Poland but I still can't donate blood in US, even though US did have some cases of the disease. So, theoretically, there is a bigger chance that I get CJD from a transfusion than I give it to someone, yet I'm still not allowed to donate.

Response by SSG Russell Bothwell made Jan 30 at 2019 6:45 AM

SSG Russell Bothwell — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 06:45:16 -0500

They won’t let dependents donate either if they spent at least 6 months in country.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2019 2:00 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 02:00:47 -0500

I had surgery with grafts so ASBP put me on a year deferment. If I was in the States, Red Cross would still allow me to donate since it was my own skin grafted but ASBP doesn’t make that distinction. I’m not aware that HIV+ can donate but I do know Red Cross was working to ease the restrictions on men who had sex with men since it is based on outdated stigmas & information (ASBP has not changed as far as I am aware).

Response by SGT Gary Vaught made Feb 1 at 2019 7:23 PM

SGT Gary Vaught — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 19:23:13 -0500

I was turned down coming back from Vietnam,
Can’t remember exactly what they said except can’t for life

Response by CPL Daniel Schwinge made Apr 2 at 2019 10:09 PM

CPL Daniel Schwinge — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 22:09:11 -0400

I was in Augsburg FRG from Jan '88 to July '91. I was there 2 years after Chernobyl and during Mad Cow. I have been told by the Red Cross I am no longer eligible to donate because of that. I do have a tattoo, but I got that in early '82.

Response by SSgt Carl B. made May 24 at 2019 12:56 PM

SSgt Carl B. — Fri, 24 May 2019 12:56:08 -0400

Mad Cow stationed in USAFE

Response by SPC Manuel Arriaga made Sep 8 at 2019 10:30 PM

SPC Manuel Arriaga — Sun, 08 Sep 2019 22:30:28 -0400

This is crazy or "Mad" the only way to know if you are infected is you go numb, dumb and crazy, then its too late. Sounds like a classic hurry up and wait strategy.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2019 9:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 09:21:23 -0400

I was told they do not want my blood because I lived for two long in Europe under the influence of mad cold disease. What a bunch of bull.

Response by MSgt Dwyane Watson made May 19 at 2020 8:26 PM

MSgt Dwyane Watson — Tue, 19 May 2020 20:26:01 -0400

I was stationed at RAF Lakenheath for 6 years from 1999 to 2005 and I cannot donate blood. The mad cow disease was a big thing during this time frame and I was told that I could have mad cow disease and wouldn't know it. SO not donating for me unfortunately.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2020 8:57 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2020 20:57:18 -0400

They said that I had too much accumulated time in Europe (2006-2008, 2012-2015)

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 27 at 2021 8:22 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:22:52 -0400

How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?

FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
FYI MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D.LTC John Shaw LTC John Mohor SGT Private RallyPoint Member SMSgt Mark VenzeioSMSgt Lawrence McCarter SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D SSG Franklin Briant SGT Steve McFarland Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen Sgt Private RallyPoint Member PFC David Foster SSG Michael Noll MSG Mark Rudolph TSgt George Rodriguez SGT Herbert Bollum LTC Wayne Dandridge SSG Jacey R. SPC Jon O. CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member

Eligibility Reference Material

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 27 at 2021 8:39 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:39:20 -0400

How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?

FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
FYI LTC Marc King 1SG Dan Capri SGM Gerald Fife Maj Kim Patterson SPC Nancy Greene SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson MAJ Dallas D. SFC Richard Williamson SFC Armando Sanchez SFC Richard Lee SPC Tom DeSmet CPT Private RallyPoint Member SGT Larry "Teruji" Sakai MAJ Randall Von Rosenberg COL Rommel Guerrero LTC Victor Badami SFC Wayne Ocker MAJ Private RallyPoint Member COL Jeffrey Carra LTC Gregory d'Arbonne

Eligibility Reference Material

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 27 at 2021 8:49 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:49:39 -0400

How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?

FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
FYI LTC Al Gonzalez LTC Dwayne Morton LTC Private RallyPoint Member LTC Private RallyPoint Member MAJ Private RallyPoint Member CPT James E Amundsen 1LT (Anonymous) AB Private RallyPoint Member SMSgt David A Asbury PO2 Cyrus Barberia SGT Private RallyPoint Member SPC Chris Bayner-Cwik Sgt Jim Belanus CPO John Bjorge SSG Franklin Briant Cpl Vic Burk Sgt Private RallyPoint Member SSG Jimmy Cernich 1LT Ernest Chamblee SFC Private RallyPoint Member

Eligibility Reference Material

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 27 at 2021 8:53 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:53:56 -0400

How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?
FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
FYI 1LT Sandy Annala Maj Robert Thornton Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. Kim Bolen RN CCM ACM SGT Cynthia Barnard CPT Private RallyPoint Member LTC Paul Labrador SFC Collin McMillion SP5 Jerry Mucha SSG Jim Parshall CPT Barbara Smith MSgt Ronald Stacy BG Private RallyPoint Member SPC William Weedman SGT Denny Espinosa

Eligibility Reference Material

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 27 at 2021 8:58 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:58:30 -0400

How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?
FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
FYI SSgt Marian Mitchell SSG Robert Mark Odom SPC Michael Oles SR PO3 Lynn Spalding PO3 Charles Streich CPL Cadrew Strickland SGM Major Stroupe SPC Michael Terrell CSM Bruce Trego GySgt Thomas Vick SGT Aaron Reed SSG Robert Ricci SGT Randell Rose Cpl Private RallyPoint Member SFC Bruce Smith CPL Michael Peck LTC Stephan Porter SSG Robert Pratt SGT Robert Pryor]

Eligibility Reference Material

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 27 at 2021 9:42 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 21:42:38 -0400

How many other veterans and service members are not permitted to donate blood? Why?

FYI my friends - it appears the rules for donating blood have changed. Only those living or being stationed in the British Isles, of France or Ireland for 5 or more years are restricted based on living or being stationed in Europe.

Based on the American Red Cross from June 30, 2021
https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-alphabetical/eligibility-reference-material.html
It seems that being stationed or being a dependent in Germany, Turkey and other duty stations in Europe [outside of the Great Britain, Ireland and France [for 5 years or more] has been lifted from the prohibition for donating blood lists.

At this time, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) donor eligibility rules related to vCJD are as follows:
You are not eligible to donate if
From January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1996, you spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 3 months or more, in any country in the United Kingdom (UK),
Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
From January 1, 1980, to present, you had a blood transfusion in any of the countries listed below:
France Ireland Channel Islands England Falkland Islands Gibraltar Isle of Man Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
You spent (visited or lived) a cumulative time of 5 years or more from January 1, 1980, through December 31, 2001, in France or Ireland.
FYI CSM Private RallyPoint Member SSG Paul Headlee SGT Michael Hearn SSG Private RallyPoint Member SPC Richard (Rick) Henry Sgt William Hodges GySgt John Hudson CW2 James Hughes 1SG Steven Imerman SSG Samuel Kermon TSgt David L.PO1 H Gene Lawrence SSG Jeffrey Leake SP5 Dennis Loberger SFC Chuck Martinez PO3 Phyllis Maynard LT Brad McInnis CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member PFC Private RallyPoint Member MSG Glen Miller

Eligibility Reference Material

Response by MSG Richard C Finley made Oct 29 at 2021 9:52 AM

MSG Richard C Finley — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 09:52:21 -0400

i heard of this do to Mad Cow Disease and i was in Germany in 1980 - 1983. but not long ago i asked my Dr about it, he said that it had been lifted and i could.

Response by PO1 John Wypyszinski made Nov 16 at 2021 2:28 PM

PO1 John Wypyszinski — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 14:28:07 -0500

Stationed in Europe in the 80's. They managed to get 5 gallons out of me before I was permanently DQ'd.

Response by LTC Joe Anderson made Nov 20 at 2021 2:12 AM

LTC Joe Anderson — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 02:12:11 -0500

Oops I was in the Balkans in the nineties and then again in 2008-2009. Not the eighties. However the Red Cross refused to take my blood for years because I had been in the Balkans. Prior to my tours of the Balkans I was a regular blood donor every 6 months to a year. I think they may have recently lifted that ban. However I have Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia. So the Red Cross no longer wants my blood (again) for this reason.

Response by PFC David Gettman made Dec 18 at 2021 1:04 PM

PFC David Gettman — Sat, 18 Dec 2021 13:04:28 -0500

I used to donate blood all the time from the early 1970's until I was told I had Hep-C in the late 1990's. No idea where I got it or how long I had it. Have since been treated and cured, but still can't give blood.

Response by CW2 Harold Watters made Jan 6 at 2022 1:05 PM

CW2 Harold Watters — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 13:05:14 -0500

I was stationed in Germany, not allowed to donate…rules have changed and I am now able to donate as they question where you were, and I was not in the infectious regions.

Response by Lt Col Ruth Sylvester made Jan 8 at 2022 11:28 AM

Lt Col Ruth Sylvester — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 11:28:23 -0500

That deferral has been lifted.

Response by MSG David Lambert made Jan 8 at 2022 12:34 PM

MSG David Lambert — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 12:34:50 -0500

I too was told my blood is no good because of exposure to mad cow during my deployment to Germany from 1980 to 1983. Since being told no blood donations are possible, I stopped even trying. Question I have is what is the time period from being exposed until we are past the time period where the disease manifests symptoms ? No feed back from the medical community .

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Jan 8 at 2022 1:18 PM

COL Jon Thompson — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 13:18:04 -0500

The Red Cross has lifted that ban. I was in the same boat and donated last month for the first time in decades. Call the Red Cross to verify. They had to lift the ban. But you should be good if Germany was your duty station

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 8 at 2022 1:47 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 13:47:04 -0500

FYI my Boss (wife) received confirmation that this Mad Cow Disease is no longer an issue for donating blood. Please check with your local blood bank.

Response by TSgt Larry Cohen made Jan 8 at 2022 7:57 PM

TSgt Larry Cohen — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 19:57:04 -0500

I was turned away also! This is sad

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Jan 8 at 2022 11:50 PM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 23:50:12 -0500

I have been temporarily not allowed to donate for a year or so now, not because of any of the below but because my iron levels were all wonky and they couldn't figure out why. last two tests have been good, so doc said to go ahead and donate and we'll see what happens.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jan 9 at 2022 9:40 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 09:40:00 -0500

LTC Stephen F. You likely can now donate, the FDA made a ruling change in 2020. This was never about a Red Cross "rule" or internal position, it was the FDA making the call.
"In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lifted a longstanding ban that prevented some 4.4 million Veterans, service members and civilians stationed in certain parts of Europe between 1980 and 1996 from donating blood. The ban was meant to prevent transmission of a deadly brain disease commonly known as “mad cow disease.” The fatal disease is believed to be acquired by consuming contaminated beef. U.S. bases at the time sourced potentially tainted beef from the United Kingdom, where the disease was first recognized in 1985.

The FDA made the change after finding there have been no reported cases of the brain disease associated with time spent on U.S. military bases in Europe."

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2022 7:56 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 07:56:11 -0500

I was stationed in the UK in 2000 and was told I am unable to donate blood, I asked for how long that would be for and they said forever. I didn't mind because I'm not a fan of needles anyways.

Response by LTC David Stark made Jan 15 at 2022 10:53 PM

LTC David Stark — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 22:53:40 -0500

I was in Bavaria from 1978 - 1981 -- 1st Armored Division. I was just two pints short of five gallons when the ban against us donating blood was instated.

Since then, I checked regularly with the Red Cross (we do blood drives at our church) and was refused repeatedly.

Now that I'm nearing 70, and had a couple of heart attacks, I just don't even try anymore.

Response by MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. made Jan 16 at 2022 2:36 AM

MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. — Sun, 16 Jan 2022 02:36:59 -0500

I'm required to take anticoagulants because every time I stop, I throw more clots. The chief reason is because I have a "protein C deficiency" and a "Factor V Liden Gene mutation," both of which make me genetically predisposed to getting clots.

Response by SGT Mary G. made Jan 16 at 2022 4:40 PM

SGT Mary G. — Sun, 16 Jan 2022 16:40:12 -0500

Living in the U.S. does not mean anyone is "home free", unfortunately. I think I learned from a cousin during the 90s, of U.S. military stationed in Germany not being allowed to donate blood. His work in the AF had been Food Inspection.
However, around about 1999/2000 during the mad cow problem in U.K. and Europe, a retired heart surgeon I was in contact with through an orphanage project being discussed, reported that he had a Medical Examiner friend in Florida who told him they had been instructed to say that discovery of "mad cow" was to be stated as Alzheimers on the death certificate.
It didn't take much digging around online to learn that the U.S.A. does not test for "mad cow", so it is not possible to know whether or not it was/is/will be in the food chain. Strangely enough, in the aftermath of that U.K. "mad cow" issue, it was chilling that it was reported on the news that an epidemic of Alzheimers in U.S.A. was being predicted in future years. Of course establishing the credence of the comment was attributed to the size of the boomer generation. Other than that no medical source was offered as "cause" for the comment. In other words it was opinion more or less equating any amount of memory problem in older folks with Alzheimers - and in some cases possibly hiding cases of mad cow.
"Epidemic", was also misused, euphemistically, no doubt. At the time it sounded like a CYA statement to me (still does), given that 20 years later, if some were not aware sooner, it is very clear that "epidemic" means a communicable disease which Alzheimers is not considered to be, nor is mad cow (Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Variant, vCJD), which is said to be caused by prions.
I don't pretend to know about prions, but from what I have read in the past it is claimed there is no cure for the damage they do; no vaccinations to prevent damage.
Simply because one has been exposed to prions - possibly - does not mean they will do predictably do damage. However, at issue is ALSO the lack of adequate testing for all food that is purchased in U.S.A. (including toxic chemicals that should not be in processed food, and residue from pesticides and herbicides). There has been some progress in recent decades, but not enough, and we have no way of knowing if laws are being enforced. For example, ask at any grocery, restaurant, cafe, fast-food place what type of oil is used, or if MSG is used . . . and the answer is they don't know, even when it is the supervisor who is politely and conversational asked.
Additionally, I asked a friend who used to work summers while in college at a meat processing place, whether or not they did any routine testing for mad cow and was told "no". I then asked if it was possible to have testing done if requested, and was told "yes". Wild game was also processed there - maybe at request of, and cost to hunters. I was told the testing has to be done on the brain of the animal. Wild game, especially in bad years (drought, fire, flooding etc.), can suffer from "mad cow".
I don't suppose the gentleman was prevaricating about what his medical examiner friend told him. I know my friend was being honest.

Response by SP5 Philip McClure made Feb 2 at 2022 9:26 PM

SP5 Philip McClure — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 21:26:53 -0500

Germany 1980-83. Eat more beef lol

Response by SSG David Brandgard made Feb 3 at 2022 3:07 PM

SSG David Brandgard — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:07:51 -0500

I was in Germany 97-99 and have been told that I cant donate blood due to mad cow at the time in Europe. I was told this again during some post Iraq "med studies".

Response by SPC Paul C. made Feb 20 at 2022 9:39 AM

SPC Paul C. — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 09:39:52 -0500

As of June 2021, we are now cleared to donate blood again.

Response by TSgt Jerry Clemens Jr made Feb 27 at 2022 7:25 AM

TSgt Jerry Clemens Jr — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 07:25:48 -0500

I was stationed in the U.K (RAF Alconbury) from May '88 to April '91. I was told I can not donate either. My (now) ex-wife and our children that were born there have not shown any signs of "mad cow". We ate off base before this came out and once the warnings went out about mad cow only ate on the installation.

Response by SFC Epi Suarez made Mar 14 at 2022 3:55 PM

SFC Epi Suarez — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 15:55:24 -0400

I live in San Antonio and the blood bank here has lifted the mad cow disease ban for becoming a blood donor. I was in Germany in 1984, haven’t been able to donate blood since then but occasionally I would ask the phlebotomist and last year I was told mass cow disease is no longer a factor when donating blood.

Response by SPC Jennifer Clever made Apr 9 at 2022 9:43 PM

SPC Jennifer Clever — Sat, 09 Apr 2022 21:43:12 -0400

I was stationed in Germany from 1987-1989 and cannot donate blood either.

Response by SR Kenneth Beck made Apr 10 at 2022 8:26 PM

SR Kenneth Beck — Sun, 10 Apr 2022 20:26:02 -0400

I was not allowed to give blood for 5 years(?) in the 70’s because our crew was given Quinine tablets to prevent malaria.

Response by CPT Richard Trione made Jan 19 at 2023 11:44 AM

CPT Richard Trione — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:44:20 -0500

Thank you so much for sharing.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jan 23 at 2023 12:05 AM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:05:48 -0500

Hold on a minute. A person can be HIV Positive and can still donate blood? I bet that the Red Cross never tells anyone that gets that blood, "Hey the guy that donated this was HIV positive but we don't think it is a big deal." I would not.
I think that the country and indeed the entire world is run by complete MORONS.

Response by SPC Daniel Rankin made Feb 24 at 2024 7:22 PM

SPC Daniel Rankin — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 19:22:35 -0500

I have a nervous disorder and am being taken care of by the VA for it. It is war related from the Gulf War. Nerve gas hit me while wearing a faulty suit.