M-pox (monkeypox)

No cases of monkeypox transmitted through blood transfusions have been reported. The risk of blood-borne infection is considered low in an asymptomatic person, but cannot be completely excluded. Since 2022, a precautionary period for exposure to monkeypox has been implemented for blood donation.

If there has been exposure, such as close contact with a person diagnosed with monkeypox or a strong suspicion of exposure, a waiting period of 3 weeks (21 days) from the last day of exposure is required before donating blood.

Close contacts are defined as sexual partners, people living in the same household, sharing the same bed, and individuals involved in the treatment of someone with monkeypox who have not worn appropriate personal protective equipment. A person infected with monkeypox is infectious from the onset of symptoms until the scabs of the skin blisters have disappeared.

For monkeypox, the withdrawal period is 2 weeks (14 days) from the end of symptoms and the disappearance of blistering scabs. If the disease has required hospitalization, the withdrawal period is 3 months.

For more information about monkeypox and its symptoms, please visit the THL website.