ASBP: FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about the ban on donating blood vCJD/BSE
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions concerning the ban on donating blood for Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) or Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), also called "Mad-Cow Disease."

Note: In April 2020, the Food and Drug Administration updated its guidance for vCJD donor deferrals. These changes were implemented July 13, 2020. Please see the question, When will I be able to donate again? for more information.

What is Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease?

Why is this blood donor deferral in effect?

Why can't I donate blood?

What is the risk of actually contracting vCJD/BSE as a result of travel to Europe in the past?

When will I be able to donate again?

Will this affect self-donation for an elective surgery?

What can I do right now?