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NHS Scotland – Hepatitis B core antibody testing and lookback programme

  • Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 31st July 2023
Cartoon image of a nurse wearing scrubs.

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) alongside Public Health Scotland (PHS) are working to make donor blood supply safer.

In April 2022, the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) began enhanced testing of donations to improve the detection rate of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in blood. This was introduced following recommendation from the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO).

As a result, all new and returning donors in Scotland are now additionally screened for hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc). We expect that only a small number of donors will have had previous hepatitis B infection, however, these donors will no longer be able to donate.

Lookback Exercise

We’re working to trace and inform anyone who has received blood which may have a low risk of passing on hepatitis B from a donor we have now found to be positive by this new test (anti-HBc). This is to offer them testing, support and advice. Individuals will receive letters guiding them what to do.

SNBTS will also undertake a review of past donations from donors positive for anti-HBc. Donors who are tested and found to be anti-HBc positive will have their past donations reassessed. If the donation is considered to have any risk of infection transmission, then the recipients of these donations will be traced, contacted and offered testing for hepatitis B.

Patient Enquiry

If you would like further information or have any questions, please contact the national helpline Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm, and Saturday: 9am to 1pm on freephone 0808 178 3432.

Appointment booking: Patients are advised to contact the number or email address from their local health board to make or rearrange an appointment for testing. Further information on appointment booking per health board is detailed below under testing arrangements.

General enquiries: Patients are advised to contact freephone 0808 178 3432, if they wish to discuss contents of their letter further.

Feedback: Patients who wish to provide feedback can contact us by email at nss.AntiHBcEnquiries@nhs.scot

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