People can donate blood 14 days after the first or second dose of any Covid-19 vaccine. The reassurance came as appeals were made on Thursday for more donors. Medics reiterated that donations can be given safely without fear of contracting or passing on coronavirus. In April, the <a href="http://Coronavirus: blood donations slump in Abu Dhabi over Covid-19 fears">Abu Dhabi's blood bank</a> fell to an all-time low, as donors feared contracting the virus. "We have ensured that the blood donation process is safe and efficient, in line with global best practice for donors," said Dr Marwan Al Kaabi, acting group chief operations officer at Abu Dhabi Health Services (Seha). "During Covid-19, we introduced additional, robust, safety and precautionary measures at the blood banks." Medics introduced strict rules to tackle coronavirus such as thermal scanning, social distancing and deep sanitisation. To date, there is no data or evidence that the virus can be transmitted through blood. Thousands of people need blood transfusions every day, and some patients such as those diagnosed with thalassemia or sickle cell anemia require blood therapy every three weeks. Each donor contributes to saving the lives of at least three people. "It is vital for all members of our community to regularly donate blood," said Dr Al Kaabi. "Blood is our lifeline and our blood banks need a consistent supply of blood to protect the interests of the entire community." “There are currently no substitutes for blood therapy, and all members of the society must consider the possibility and day where they, a friend, or family member would require a blood transfusion too.” The aim of Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services is to ensure that there is a sufficient supply of blood inventory to support the needs of 50 public and private hospitals in the emirate. Both the Abu Dhabi and Al Ain banks welcome donors from Saturday to Thursday. The Abu Dhabi branch is open from 7:00am to 10:00pm, while the Al Ain branch is open from 8:00am to 8:00pm. For more information on blood donation visit the Seha <a href="https://www.seha.ae/">website</a>.