IMPORTANT WEST NILE VIRUS RESEARCH
PUBLISHED IN TRANSFUSION

BETHESDA, MD – The American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) journal, TRANSFUSION, introduces and explores areas of emerging research on West Nile virus (WNV) in its August 2003 issue. The journal presents articles on the risk of transfusion-acquired WNV, possibility for WNV infection via blood component, stability of the virus under blood bank storage conditions, implementation of nucleic acid testing (NAT) for WNV, and many other relevant issues of importance to those involved with blood banking and transfusion medicine.

The release of this WNV research could not come at a better time as the public is critically concerned about transfusion safety. “Clinicians, researchers, and decision-makers in blood banks and transfusion services will want to be familiar with this research," said TRANSFUSION Editor Paul Ness, MD.

For additional information, or to obtain free online access to TRANSFUSION, contact the AABB public relations department at +1.301.215.6526. To learn more about TRANSFUSION visit the AABB Web site at www.aabb.org and access the TRANSFUSION journal icon in the lower left hand corner, or go to the Blackwell Publishing Web site at www.blackwell-synergy.com.

About AABB

Established in 1947, the American Association of Blood Banks is an international association of blood banks, including hospital and community blood centers, transfusion and transplantation services and individuals involved in activities related to transfusion and transplantation medicine. The AABB supports high standards of medical, technical and administrative performance, scientific investigation, clinical application and education. It is dedicated to encouraging the voluntary donation of blood and other tissues and organs through education, public information and research. AABB member facilities are responsible for collecting virtually all of the nation’s blood supply and transfusing more than 80 percent. Approximately 2,000 institutions (community and hospital blood banks, hospital transfusion services and laboratories) and 8,000 individuals are members of the AABB, including physicians, scientists, administrators, medical technologists, blood donor recruiters and public relations personnel. Members are located in all 50 states and 80 foreign countries.

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