The German Red Cross Blood Donation Service has emphasized the importance of observing specific waiting periods before donating blood after an infection, in order to protect both donors and recipients. The service noted that donating blood is not permitted on the first symptom-free day; instead, the required waiting time depends on the type and severity of the infection.
According to the official guidelines, the waiting periods are as follows:
- After an infection without complications: Wait 7 days from the time symptoms disappear.
- After an infection accompanied by fever: Wait 28 days after all symptoms, including fever, have resolved.
- After taking antibiotics: Wait 4 weeks from the last dose.
- After receiving a flu vaccine: If no side effects occur, blood donation is allowed 1 day after vaccination.
These measures ensure the highest standards of safety and allow the body sufficient time to fully recover before donating blood again.
