The infected blood scandal has been dubbed as the worst treatment disaster in the history of the UK’s National Health Service. Almost 30,000 people in the UK became infected with HIV or hepatitis due to contaminated blood transfusions in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, resulting in over 3,000 deaths.
A governmental inquiry published in May 2024 revealed large-scale cover-ups by health workers and ministers, downplaying the risks and damages of contaminated blood. The scandal’s impact has been enduring, with families and friends affected for decades.
Similar infected blood scandals occurred globally, affecting countries like Canada, Australia, France, and Germany. Legal actions have been taken in some countries against those responsible for the distribution of tainted blood.
Rigorous testing of donated blood for infectious diseases is now standard practice worldwide, with measures in place to reduce the transmission of diseases. Financial compensation is a priority for many affected individuals.
Edited by: Zulfikar Abbany
Sources:
Infected Blood Inquiry Report 2024 https://www.infectedbloodinquiry.org.uk/reports/inquiry-report
Policy paper: Government Update on the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme: 16 August 2024 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/government-update-on-the-infected-blood-compensation-scheme-16-august-2024/government-update-on-the-infected-blood-compensation-scheme-16-august-2024