Can You Donate Blood with Herpes in 2025? Key Guidelines & Restrictions

If you have herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2), you can generally donate blood as long as any cold sores or lesions are fully healed or nearly healed. Additionally, you should wait at least 48 hours after completing antiviral medications before donating.

This approach aligns with standard practices for many viral infections: blood donation is safe once you’re no longer actively infected. Keep in mind, herpes remains in your body even without symptoms, but this doesn’t automatically prevent blood donation.

Understanding the nuances of blood donation eligibility is crucial, especially if you have temporary infections or other health concerns. Below, we outline when you can and cannot donate, plus where to donate safely.

Donating Plasma with Herpes

Plasma donation follows similar rules as whole blood donation. Plasma, a vital blood component, is separated using special equipment, with red blood cells returned to your body. If you have herpes, ensure no active sores are present and that it’s been at least 48 hours since finishing antiviral treatment before donating plasma.

Can You Donate Blood if You Have HPV?

The answer is less clear with human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual activity. Most HPV infections resolve without treatment.

Traditionally, individuals with HPV who aren’t experiencing active infections were considered eligible to donate blood. However, a 2019 animal study suggested the possibility of HPV presence in blood, raising questions about transmission risks via blood donation.

More research is needed to clarify HPV transmission through blood. If you have HPV, consult your healthcare provider to determine if blood donation is safe for you.

When You Should NOT Donate Blood

• Under 17 years old (exceptions in some states with parental consent)
• Weigh less than 110 pounds
• History of leukemia, lymphoma, or Hodgkin’s disease
• Received dura mater transplant or have Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) family history
• Diagnosed with hemochromatosis or sickle cell anemia
• Have hepatitis B, C, unexplained jaundice, or HIV
• Currently ill, feverish, or coughing up phlegm
• Recent travel to malaria-risk areas in the past year
• Had Zika infection within the last 4 months
• History of Ebola infection
• Active tuberculosis infection
• Taking narcotics, antibiotics, or blood thinners
• Received blood transfusion within the past year

When It’s Safe to Donate Blood

• Age 17 or older
• Mild seasonal allergies (unless severe symptoms)
• 24 hours passed since last antibiotic dose
• Recovered from skin cancer or treated for precancerous cervical lesions
• At least 12 months post-recovery from other cancers
• 48 hours post-recovery from cold or flu
• Well-managed diabetes
• No seizures related to epilepsy for at least one week
• Under medication for high blood pressure

Unsure About Your Eligibility?

If you suspect you have herpes or other STIs, get tested before donating. Consult your doctor for accurate diagnosis and advice.

Helpful Resources

• Contact NIH Blood Bank: (301) 496-1048 or email giveblood@cc.nih.gov
• Visit NIH and Red Cross websites for blood donation FAQs and eligibility guidelines
• Reach out to local blood donation organizations or hospitals with donor services

Where to Donate Blood

• Find local blood drives via the Red Cross 'Find a Drive' tool using your ZIP code
• Locate nearby blood banks on the AABB website

Final Thoughts

Blood donation is a vital service saving countless lives daily. If you have herpes, you can donate blood safely once you’re symptom-free and have waited the recommended time after antiviral treatment.

Always consult healthcare professionals or trusted blood donation centers to confirm your eligibility and ensure a safe donation process.

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