Dr Norkhazarina Omar
MIRI (June 21): Miri Hospital Blood Bank has submitted list of names of regular blood donors to be given priority for Covid-19 vaccination, says Miri Hospital Transfusion specialist Dr Norkhazarina Omar.
She told reporters yesterday that since May, Miri Blood Bank has been compiling the names of regular blood donors, and has collaborated with Miri Hospital to make the vaccination arrangement.
“We started off with 100 donors that have donated more than 100 times and I was told that half of the lists have received at least the first jab.
“During the arrangement, medical personnel will check and assess the health condition of each individual to ensure that they are ready for the vaccine,” said Dr Norkhazarina.
She added that the blood bank is doing their best in encouraging regular blood donors to receive the vaccine jab before donating blood, as it could help curb the transfusion of Covid-19 virus.
On a related matter, she revealed that the blood bank had received a lot of enquiries from blood donors on the deferral period, the vaccine’s brand and post-vaccine symptoms.
“Regardless of any brand of vaccines, blood donors must take note that blood donation is only allowed after seven days of deferral period with condition that any symptom of vaccine reactions, such as fever, headache and body aches, have fully subsided/receded.
“Donors can donate in between the jabs with similar terms.
“It is also advisable to drink as much water as possible post-vaccine, because hydration can help resolve the reaction to the vaccine,” she added.
Dr Norkhazarina also revealed that the Type O blood is currently low and in need of replenishment; therefore, those with the blood type can walk-in to Miri Blood Bank for donation.
Individuals aged 17 to 18 who are interested to become donor must be in good health and must obtain consent from their parents or guardians before donating blood.
Regular blood donors aged between 60 and 70 years must provide yearly medical report to be allowed to donate blood.
“As for individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure, and their sugar/blood pressure level under control with medication and no organ defect will also be allowed to donate blood.
“However, for cases under certain circumstances such as consuming certain medicines such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ace inhibitor), that are prescribed to treat hypertension, blood donation is not allowed for safety reason,” she added.