Make Sure You are Flu Free and Donate Blood

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(Undated) – If you are planning to donate blood it should go without saying that you must be healthy. As flu season picks up this fall, the American Red Cross is urging healthy donors of all blood types to give blood or platelets to ensure a strong blood supply for patients in need. Blood and platelets can only be given by donors who are feeling well. However, the flu shot does not affect blood donation eligibility. One way to maintain health is to get a flu vaccine each fall. There is no waiting period to give blood or platelets after receiving a flu shot as long as the donor is symptom and fever-free. Learn more about the donation process at redcrossblood.org.