Anti BSE measures could cost lives
There are fears that Anti-BSE measures being considered by the Blood Transfusion Board could cause a severe blood shortage and ultimately cost lives.
UP to 13% of the population could be banned from giving blood in an effort to prevent infection from CJD, the human form of Mad Cow Disease.
The warning of a severe blood shortage is reportedly contained in an internal memo at the Blood Transfusion Board.
Under the plan, anyone who ever received a blood transfusion and people who lived in Britain between 1980 and 1996 would be banned from donating.
The memo goes on to say that unless counter measures are taken, people will almost certainly die from the resulting lack of blood.
However, the same document, reportedly also states that while the risk of passing on the human form of BSE through transfusions is theoretical, it cannot be ignored.
There are also fears that cattle smuggling rings could allow infected animals into the food chain.
