WNV/SARS: Challenges to Transfusion Safety, Then and Now
Program Code: 054579
Wednesday, May 4, 2005
2:00 PM to 3:30 PM (ET)

MODERATOR
Alexander Indrikovs, MD, MBA, University of Texas Medical Branch

SPEAKERS
Clarence J. Peters, MD, University of Texas Medical Branch
Susan Rossmann, MD, PhD, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center

DESCRIPTION
Continuous Improvements in threat recognition, donor screening and laboratory tests have accounted for marked reductions in the rate of transfusion-transmitted infectious diseases. Significant progress has been made in controlling the spread of many microorganisms by blood transfusions. However, new and unknown infectious agents continue to represent a challenge as they emerge and taint our blood supply. West Nile virus, and more recently severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), are in the spotlight in the blood banking community. This program will provide information about these two infectious agents, their history, relevant microbiology and epidemiology and their implications in the availability of blood components and safe blood transfusion practices.