KATHMANDU, MAY 9 The Nepal Red Cross Society has reported a growing demand for blood in Jhapa, alongside the detection of HIV infection in the blood samples of 29 donors over the past five fiscal years. The cases were identified during mandatory screening at blood transfusion service centres operated by the Society in Bhadrapur, Birtamod and Damak. Donated blood is routinely tested for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and syphilis before transfusion. According to Shishir Dahal, in-charge of the Bhadrapur blood transfusion service centre, one donor tested HIV reactive in fiscal year 2078/79. The number rose to two in 2079/80, six in 2080/81, 14 in 2081/82 and six in the current fiscal year 2082/83. Dahal said donors with reactive test results are referred for confirmatory testing and counselling. The Red Cross supplies more than 17,000 units of safe blood annually to hospitals across the district. However, blood shortages are frequently reported during the monsoon season and peak agricultural periods due to a decline in donation programmes. Officials said the demand for blood has been increasing with the rise in patients suffering from cancer, kidney disease, anemia and other serious illnesses. The Society stated that pre- and post-donation screening procedures are vital to ensuring safe blood transfusion services and protecting patients from infection. (With inputs from RSS)