Spongiform & tickborne pathogens are a potential threats to the safety of US blood

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/htbin-post/Entrez/query?uid=11850862 & form=6 & db=m

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Infectious

Diseases, Division of Viral and Rickettsial Diseases, Atlanta, GA, 30333,

USA. mec1

 

In recent years, numerous infectious agents-including several newly

discovered hepatitis viruses, the agents of transmissible spongiform

encephalopathies, and tickborne pathogens-have been identified as potential

threats to the safety of blood and plasma. Continued vigilance is critical

to protect the blood supply from known pathogens and to monitor for the

emergence of new infectious agents. Recent terrorist activities in the

United States add new considerations to maintaining the safety and supply of

blood. Education of clinicians and patients regarding the benefits and risks

associated with the judicious use of blood and blood products can assist in

informed decision making.