Question Number: 119
PDR Number: SQ22-000252
Date Submitted: 24/02/2022
Department or Body: National Blood Authority
146. The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood (Lifeblood) does not test donated blood for trace vaccine components as this is not necessary for safety reasons. Screening tests for donated blood must be appropriately licensed in accordance with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) requirements. Currently, there are no TGA licensed tests for vaccine component screening in blood or for proteins produced from mRNA vaccines.
147. Australia has national blood arrangements that deliver one of the safest blood supply arrangements in the world. These arrangements are supported by rigorous blood donor screening and testing processes, manufacturing processes and ongoing surveillance of known and emerging risks. Australia’s national blood arrangements also comply with the regulatory requirements determined by the TGA.
