Medical specialists have expressed their disappointment over the inadequate monitoring of all patients who may have received transfusions of blood infected with hepatitis C during 1970 and 1980. A blood test for this condition became available only in 1991, which led many campaigners, mostly hemophiliacs question the transfusion practice carried on during this period.
The Holy rood health committee was considering demands from campaigners to look into the happenings during 1970 and 1980 when transfusions led to such problems. During this period nearly 3500 patients were said to have received blood transfusion. Now, the numbers of infected people has risen to an alarming 37000, the disease having spread via shared needles, sex, or transmission of infection in the families. The health committee spoke to victims of HIV, Hep C and also to a lawyer, who is handling these cases through the courts, and all of them unanimously wished to be enlightened with the truth.Andy Kerr, the health minister, is divided about initiating an inquiry, suggesting that it would be expensive and worthless at this point of time, since it will not contribute to benefiting the patients in any manner. In his opinion, it will be wishful thinking to realize the complete transfusion story. Presently, regular blood donors who are infected are already under the scanner. Mr. Kerr told MSP’s that he would once again consider the feasibility prospect of initiating a transfusion hepatitis inquiry.
