Giving blood classed as essential travel
The Department of Health and Social Care is urging people to keep giving blood as normal during the coronavirus pandemic.
Appointments are continuing as normal throughout April, with additional safety measures in place to protect donors and staff.
Those who are safe and well are permitted to visit the Jubilee Suite at the Old Noble’s Hospital on Ballakermeen Road in Douglas.
Giving blood is classed as essential travel because it helps to meet the needs of vulnerable people.
It adds, however, that it's important donors stick to their alloted appointment time, as those arriving early can cause problems with social distancing measures.
It reassures patients that there is no scientific evidence of coronavirus being transmitted through blood donation.
Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford MHK said: ‘Giving blood saves lives and it is vital to ensure that donations continue. We appreciate there may be some concern or reluctance during the current situation, but we can reassure people that the safety of donors and staff is always our number one priority.'
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