NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) has introduced a new monitoring system for blood donors to detect tropical infections that could potentially pose a threat in the UK due to climate change. Health experts have highlighted concerns about the growing risk of some tropical diseases in the UK as a result of changing environmental conditions. The monitoring system aims to identify newly emerging viruses that could enter the country, including tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), West Nile virus, and Usutu virus.
While there have been no reported cases of human infections of Usutu or West Nile viruses in the UK, Usutu has been discovered in birds, and mosquitoes capable of transmitting West Nile virus have been detected in the south of England. TBEV has also been found in a small number of ticks in the UK, with four reported cases of TBEV infection likely acquired from tick bites in the UK. Despite the current low risk level, NHSBT and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have identified these viruses as potential threats that could spread as warmer temperatures drive mosquitoes and ticks into new areas.
The new initiative involves analysing 5,000 blood samples from consenting donors over the next few months. These samples will be tested for viruses, and donors’ travel history, exposure to infections, and vaccinations will be considered. The “Codonet” blood sample archive will be maintained by NHSBT at its Oxford blood centre and will collaborate with UKHSA surveillance programs to monitor infection spread within the general population.
Heli Harvala, a consultant medical virologist at NHS Blood and Transplant, emphasised the importance of targeted sampling to respond effectively to infectious disease threats related to climate change. By combining test results with donors’ travel and vaccination history, the likelihood of locally acquired infections can be assessed. Dr. Amanda Semper from UKHSA highlighted the increasing risk of mosquito-borne infections in the UK due to various factors such as climate change and global travel.
Professor Peter Simmonds, director of the NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Genomics, and a virology professor at the University of Oxford, explained that the Codonet archive would enable targeted screening in specific areas based on donors’ history and exposure to disease-carrying organisms. This approach aims to enhance surveillance and early detection of infections to strengthen the country’s ability to respond promptly.
The initiative underscores the importance of proactive measures to safeguard blood safety and public health in the face of evolving infectious disease risks. By leveraging advanced monitoring systems and collaborative efforts between healthcare agencies, the UK aims to stay ahead of potential threats posed by tropical infections as a result of changing environmental conditions. This proactive approach aligns with global efforts to address the impacts of climate change on public health and healthcare systems.
Individuals interested in learning more about blood donation can visit blood.co.uk, use the GiveBloodNHS app, or contact 0300 123 23 23. The launch of this innovative monitoring system reflects a proactive response to evolving health challenges and reinforces the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public amidst changing environmental dynamics.