What is a requirement for donors regarding their health prior to donation?

For plasma donation, one of the critical requirements is that donors must be free from colds or flu. This stipulation is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both the donor and the recipients of the plasma. Illnesses like colds or the flu can compromise a donor's health and may also introduce infections or other complications into the donated plasma. By requiring donors to be free of such illnesses, plasma donation organizations aim to maintain high safety standards and protect the integrity of the plasma collection process.

The health assessment prior to donation is vital because it helps minimize risks associated with the donation itself and ensures that the collected plasma is safe for those who will ultimately receive it. This focus on the donor’s immediate health status acts as a protective measure to prevent complications that may arise from donating when feeling unwell.