Ever thought-about donating blood in Hong Kong? Because the blood banks run dangerously low, we’ve created a information on every little thing you want to find out about serving to out.
Interested by volunteering or contributing to social enterprises in Hong Kong to make a change? You are able to do you half, just by visiting a blood donor centre. Along with serving to refugees and different marginalised communities, we at Honeycombers extremely encourage everybody to exit and take motion to assist the town we name house. Feeling not sure? Learn on to search out out extra about donating blood in Hong Kong.
Your FAQs about donating blood in Hong Kong, answered
Is donating blood harmful?
No, donating blood just isn’t harmful. New, sterile disposable tools is used for every donor, so there’s no danger of getting AIDS or every other blood-borne infectious illnesses from giving blood. Plus, to make sure you’re wholesome sufficient on the day, you’ll obtain a well being screening initially of the appointment to test your temperature, blood strain, and haemoglobin.
Donating a pint of blood takes about 10 minutes, throughout which you’ll be seated comfortably or mendacity down. After donation, there are drinks and snacks provided that can assist you relaxation up and exchange the fluids misplaced. The physique will replenish itself over a couple of days.
What’s the donation standards?
You’re eligible to donate blood in Hong Kong in case you:
- Are between 16 and 65 years previous
- Weigh not less than 41 kg (90 lbs)
- Will not be below physician’s remedy or taking treatment
- Haven’t had signs of flu, fever, or different sickness prior to now two weeks
Along with the above, there are a couple of different issues to be careful for. Have you ever obtained vaccines or dental therapies just lately? Have you ever had tattoos, piercings, or acupuncture throughout the final six months? If that’s the case, chances are you’ll not be capable of donate.
Discover out extra by taking the official on-line eligibility take a look at and staying updated with the most recent donation standards.
The place can I donate blood in Hong Kong?
As of August 2023, there are 10 Crimson Cross donor centres in Hong Kong. You’ll discover them in areas comparable to Central, Mong Kok, Sha Tin, Kwun Tong, and extra. There are cell donation companies and automobiles, too.
Verify the complete listing of donor centres and the schedule for cell donation.
How do I put together for the day of my donation?
- Get a very good night time’s sleep earlier than the night earlier than your donation
- Eat not less than 4 hours previous to the donation (to keep away from hypoglycaemia)
- Keep hydrated
- Keep in mind to carry your HKID or journey paperwork
- Don’t put on garments with tight sleeves
Learn the official Blood Donation Information Pack.
How is my blood saving others’ lives?
Don’t underestimate your affect! Though you’re solely donating round 400 ml of blood every time, a single donation may also help three or extra various forms of sufferers. Your purple blood cells can help these with anaemia; whereas your white blood cells can defend these with compromised immunity towards bacterial invasion. Additionally, your blood platelets may also help those that have issues with blood clotting, and your plasma can help these with impaired liver operate.
Donating blood in Hong Kong has by no means been extra essential, so make sure that to assist in case you can!
The data on this article is taken from Hong Kong Crimson Cross Blood Transfusion Service and the American Crimson Cross. You probably have any particular issues, make sure that to seek the advice of certified medical professionals or healthcare suppliers for personalised recommendation and steerage.
[This article was originally published in August 2020 and updated in 2023 by Elaine Wong.]