Red Cross changes blood-donation rules

3/31/2005

American Red Cross officials have implemented new rules on who may donate blood, including relaxed provisions that now allow many people with a tattoo from a licensed parlor to give blood instead of waiting a year.

The Western Lake Erie Region of the American Red Cross, which serves northwest Ohio and Monroe County, has adopted the new rules.

Other changes include:

●Those with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, can now donate.

●Rules on travel to Europe and the United Kingdom put in place to prevent exposure to mad cow disease have been relaxed.

Other changes and more specific information on the new guidelines can be obtained by calling 419 321-1742, ext. 289.