FDA loosens restrictions on blood donations amid coronavirus outbreak

SEATTLE — As blood donations plummet during the coronavirus outbreak, the Food and Drug Administration has eased restrictions on who can donate.

The FDA has reduced the abstinence period for gay men from one year to three months.

The shorter time frame also applies to people who have gotten tattoos and piercings.

HIV-positive people cannot donate blood.

The FDA said there is an urgent need for blood and expects the eased restrictions will help increase donations.

You can donate blood Friday at 10 a.m. in Lake Tapps during a community drive on 220th Avenue East.

You can also schedule a donation at Bloodworks Northwest at this link, text the the word “bloodapp” to 91985 or call 1-800-398-7888.

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