Risk Assessment and Refined Management of Blood Collection and Supply during the COVID-19 Epidemic

Abstract

Since the end of 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has continued to spread worldwide and has become a major global public health threat. SARS-CoV-2 has the characteristics of a long incubation period and asymptomatic infection, which are undoubtedly major challenges to blood transfusion safety. Although no research has suggested that there is a risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through blood transfusion, the safe use of clinical blood during the epidemic is a serious problem faced by blood collection and supply institutions. Herein, we elaborate on the management of blood collection and supply during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic from aspects such as blood inventory management, clinical blood use, and reducing the risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via blood transfusion. Blood service departments should adopt flexible policies to ensure that blood collection networks can meet clinical needs, while at the same time protecting staff and blood donors, maintaining blood safety, and reducing blood risks during the epidemic.