HIV, HBV and STD screening of high-risk subjects.

The seropositivity rate for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and sexually transmitted diseases (STO) were evaluated in high-risk subjects related to a blood transfusion centre in Eastern India. Paid donors showed a high seropositivity rate for HBV and STO and a recent emergence of HIV seropositivity. The multitransfused subjects of thalassaemia and haemophilia showed HBV seropositivity rates of 18% and 38% respectively but haemophiliacs receiving blood components showed in addition a seropositivity of 3% for HIV. The laboratory staff and personnel of the blood bank and parents of patients with thalassaemia showed high carrier rates for HBV. A voluntary blood donation programme, rigid screening of blood for STO and HBV and training for proper handling of blood and blood products are essential requirements for a safe blood transfusion service. Screening for HIV seropositivity should be carried out in high-risk donors, patients requiring frequent transfusion and their contacts.