CBCO announces updated tattoo guidelines to allow more donors to give blood immediately

Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) announced that it is expanding the list of states where donors will be accepted if they received a tattoo from an approved, state-regulated facility, allowing more people to donate blood without delay. The update follows changes from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that significantly eased restrictions for individuals who have recently received a tattoo at an unapproved facility from a 12-month deferral to a three-month deferral.

Under the expanded list, donors who receive tattoos in one of these stateregulated facilities using sterile needles and singleuse, nonreused ink will be able to donate blood immediately after getting inked. Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas are among the 40 states whose tattoo regulations meet CBCO’s criteria.

States that do not regulate tattoo facilities include Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Pennsylvania. Individuals who receive tattoos in unregulated states or unlicensed facilities will be deferred for three months, replacing the former 12month waiting period.

“We know many people assume they cannot donate blood because of a recent tattoo and in most cases, that is simply not true anymore,” said Anthony Roberts, CBCO Executive Director. “These updated guidelines make it easier than ever for eligible donors to roll up their sleeves and help save lives. With community blood needs higher than ever, this change could not come at a better time.”

Donors who received tattoos or piercings must ensure the site is dry, healed and painfree before donating.

For questions regarding donor eligibility, call 800-280-5337.