INQUIRER.net STOCK IMAGE
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Saturday said COVID-19 vaccinees can still donate blood.
“The demand for blood [donations] never stopped,” said PRC chairman Sen. Richard Gordon in a statement.
READ: Blood supply nearing critical level amid pandemic — DOH
The PRC blood services pointed out that all vaccines available in the country are safe, and those who wish to give blood are eligible as blood donors anytime as long as they do not get any vaccine-related symptoms.
“As for those who get mild vaccine-related symptoms, such as a localized muscle ache or pain at the injection site, the blood donation must be seven days after symptoms disappear,” the PRC Blood Services said in a statement.
“For other vaccine-related symptoms like fever or chills, rashes, generalized muscle ache or joint pain, swelling lymph nodes, and other systemic symptoms, one can donate blood at least fourteen days after his or her symptoms disappear,” they added.
Interested blood donors may call the PRC’s 143 hotline or (+632) 8790-2300.
RELATED STORY
Red Cross seeks blood donations