In keeping with updated CDC guidance, masks will be required for all donors, staff and guests, at all Vitalant blood drives and facilities regardless of vaccination status. Thank you for your understanding, and let's continue to save lives together!

All donors, regardless of vaccination status, are needed for blood, platelet and plasma donations. Read our COVID-19 FAQs.

Blood Donation Eligibility

You may be wondering if you can donate blood. Donating blood is safe and easy to do. If you're in good health and meet the general eligibility criteria, then you are likely able to give blood. If you meet all eligibility criteria below, please to transform the lives of patients in need. If you've got a tattoo, traveled abroad or take medications and wonder if these affect your eligibility, please review how these might impact your eligibility.

If you have received the COVID-19 vaccine or participated in a COVID-19 vaccine trial:

  • You ARE eligible to donate blood or platelets if you meet all general blood donation eligibility criteria.
  • Your plasma can be manufactured into COVID-19 convalescent plasma by Vitalant if you meet other FDA requirements for convalescent plasma, including: 
    • Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 via swab test and had symptoms.
    • Vaccine was administered after diagnosis.
    • Blood donation is given within two weeks to six months following resolution of symptoms. 
  • Must be at least 16 years old (16- and some 17-year-olds must bring a signed permission form from a parent or guardian, if required by state or school).
  • Weigh at least 110 pounds. Certain height/weight criteria may apply for donors 22 years old or younger.
  • Be in good general health.
  • For your safety and to ensure a positive donation experience, make sure you eat within two hours ahead of your donation. Drink plenty of water that day and 24 to 48 hours beforehand. Feel free to help yourself to something to eat and drink in our refreshment area.
  • Bring your ID—something with your name and one of the following: date of birth, donor ID number or your photo.
  • You must wait eight weeks between whole blood donations. Learn more about specific intervals for other types of donation.
  • You should not be under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs at the time of donation.


Please do NOT donate or enter a Vitalant facility if you are not feeling well. Blood donors are NOT tested for coronavirus.

You should NOT donate or enter a Vitalant facility if in the last 2 weeks you:
  • Had symptoms from a lab-diagnosed or suspected COVID-19 infection.
  • Have a pending COVID-19 test that is not for travel or social gathering clearance.
  • If you are not fully vaccinated (less than 14 days since first dose in a 1- dose vaccination series, or the second dose in a 2-dose series) AND:
    • Have lived with or been in close contact with individuals diagnosed with or suspected of having COVID-19 infection.
    • Are a health care worker who has been caring for a patient diagnosed with or suspected of having COVID-19 and have not consistently been able to use recommended personal protective equipment (face mask, gown and gloves).
What are COVID-19 and its symptoms?
COVID-19 is the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has listed several classical symptoms of COVID-19 infection which include:
  • Fever and/or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Muscle and body aches
  • Sudden loss of taste or smell

Before donating blood, please refer to your state’s or public health agency’s guidelines for COVID-19 testing and quarantining if you have recently traveled (domestically or internationally).

The information above is not all-inclusive and is subject to change. It's important you review this information before scheduling an appointment.