Plasma safety starts with careful donor selection. Donation centers for source plasma are monitored and located in regions of the United States and Europe with low viral (contaminant) marker rates. For each plasma collection center the rate of positive donations is determined for a six-month period. The viral marker rates may not exceed a maximum number of confirmed positive donors for HIV, HCV and HBV. This standard guarantees that plasma is collected from low risk populations.

All potential donors are carefully screened before being allowed to donate plasma. As part of the screening process, each donor undergoes an initial physical examination and regular follow-up exams where a comprehensive health history is taken and maintained. Potential donors complete in-depth questionnaires about their medical history and lifestyle. The questionnaire is designed to assess: health status; anamnesis (medical history); travel history; and risky behavior including tattoos, body piercing, and sexual behavior. Vital signs of potential donors are also taken. These include: temperature, blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin / haematocrit and total serum protein, which must be within predefined limits.

Only after donors have returned for a second donation within a six month period and have again tested negative, will their first donation be released for further processing. At this point, a donor has been cleared by our rigorous screening process and is now qualified. Qualified donors typically donate regularly, allowing us to monitor their health. Prior to each donation, a health questionnaire is administered and vital signs are assessed. If at any time a donor no longer meets safety and quality criteria, the donor is deferred.

Who Donates Plasma?
Adults from all walks of life donate the plasma that is the basis for lifesaving plasma- protein therapies. The quest for safety begins by finding healthy, committed donors. All potential donors are required to undergo a pre-donation medical examination and screening tests for hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other viruses and pathogens.

Potential donors complete in-depth questionnaires about their medical history and lifestyle. Those who satisfy the criteria donate plasma on a periodic basis, undergoing medical screening prior to each donation. Computer-controlled management and traceability systems also ensure plasma quality. We are thankful for the life-saving gifts of plasma provided by our plasma donors.