Can You Donate Plasma With Hepatitis C?

Can You Donate Plasma With Hepatitis C?

No, individuals with current or past hepatitis C cannot donate plasma in 2026. Key points:

• Active Hep C: Permanent deferral
• Cured Hep C: Still usually deferred
• Antibody positive: Permanent deferral
• All centers: Universal policy

Active Hepatitis C Infection

If you currently have hepatitis C, you cannot donate:

• Active infection is an absolute disqualification
• The virus can be transmitted through plasma products
• All donations are tested for Hep C
• Positive test = permanent deferral

What About Cured Hepatitis C?

Even if you've been cured, most centers still defer:

• SVR (sustained virologic response): Considered "cured"
• Antibodies remain: You'll still test positive for antibodies
• Most centers: Permanent deferral regardless of cure
• Some exceptions: Very rare, specialized programs

Why Cured Patients Are Still Deferred

• Antibody tests detect past infection
• Additional testing would be needed to confirm cure
• Recipient safety is priority
• FDA regulations are conservative

How Hep C Testing Works

All plasma donations are tested:

• Antibody test: Detects past or current infection
• NAT (nucleic acid testing): Detects active virus
• Both positive: Active infection likely
• Antibody only: Past infection (may be cured)

If You Test Positive

If hepatitis C is detected during screening:

• You will be notified privately
• Your plasma will not be used
• You will be permanently deferred
• You should seek medical care if unaware
• Treatment is available and effective

Alternative Ways to Help

If you have or had hepatitis C:

• Hep C research studies: Clinical trials often compensate
• Advocacy: Support hepatitis awareness organizations
• Volunteer: Help at healthcare organizations
• Education: Share prevention information

Hepatitis A and B - Different Rules

Frequently Asked Questions

I was treated with Harvoni/Epclusa and I'm cured - can I donate?

Unfortunately, even after successful treatment with modern DAA medications, most plasma centers still permanently defer anyone with a history of hepatitis C due to antibody testing.

What if I clear the virus naturally?

About 15-25% of people clear hep C without treatment. However, you'll still have antibodies that show on tests, so you'd still be deferred at most centers.

Will plasma donation discover I have hep C?

Yes, all donations are tested. If you're positive, the center will notify you. However, if you think you might have hep C, it's better to get tested through your doctor first.