South American trypanosomiasis - Whole blood and components

South American trypanosomiasis is caused by infection with a protozoal parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi. It is a persistent infection that is known to be transmitted by transfusion. At present, there is no certain cure for the infection so anyone who has ever been infected cannot donate.

If at least 4 months following the date of last exposure (or if transfused prior to 1980) and a validated test for T. cruzi antibody is negative, accept.

• Geographical Disease Risk Index for countries with a current T. cruzi risk
• Transfusion

Infection with T. cruzi is very common in many parts of South or Central America and is often symptomless. It can be passed from an infected mother to her unborn baby and by transfusion. The insect that passes the infection on is only common in rural areas and the greater time that an individual has spent living in housing conditions with thatched roofs or mud lined walls which harbour the insect vector, the greater their risk of becoming infected.

Testing is available and should be performed if there is a possibility of infection. Waiting 4 months from the last time of exposure allows time for the antibodies that are tested for to develop.

Camping or trekking in the jungle in South or Central America (including Mexico) is not considered a high enough risk to merit exclusion.