On Monday 20 May 2024, the UK Government published its full report on the Infected Blood Inquiry. The Inquiry details the impact following the supply and use of infected blood products in the NHS between 1970 and 1991.
The full report and supporting information can be found on the Infected Blood Inquiry website.
Brendan Brown, Chief Executive at Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust, said: “As a Trust we thank the Inquiry for its perseverance and final report, which represents a hugely significant day for the people affected and their families. We know there were local people whose lives have sadly been directly impacted and on behalf of the local NHS I apologise unreservedly for the suffering, pain and loss they have experienced.
“Since the time period covered by this report, there have been significant improvements to the safety and testing of blood products in the NHS.
“We will work closely alongside NHS England and all relevant organisations to ensure that the report’s recommendations are implemented.”
For those people or their families who have received transfusion of red cells or blood components
If you are concerned that you may have received a transfusion of red cells or blood components in the past and you would like some advice on this, please refer to the NHS England and the NHS Blood and Transplant websites regarding the infected blood inquiry. If you require further advice following this, please contact your GP to review your health records.
If you are concerned about a possible hepatitis C infection, you can book a home NHS test online. The tests are free and confidential. To receive a self-testing kit which can be quickly dispatched to your home visit hepctest.nhs.uk.
Hepatitis B is also linked to infected blood, this usually clears up on its own without treatment, but could develop into chronic hepatitis B. Patients can find out more information here - hepatitis B information
HIV testing is also provided to anyone free of charge on the NHS. Home testing and home sampling kits are also available. You can find out more about HIV testing and the HIV testing services search tool on the NHS website.
