New packaging solutions for life sciences, all at PACK EXPO in Chicago
Discover new packaging solutions from hundreds of suppliers specializing in life sciences, all under one roof at PACK EXPO International in Chicago.

Zika Virus Puts Blood Supply at Risk

It will cost $100,000 a week for this country to import all of its blood.

Puerto Rico will begin importing all of its blood supply from the continental United States.
Puerto Rico will begin importing all of its blood supply from the continental United States.

Puerto Rico will begin importing all of its blood supply from the continental United States after growing fears surrounding the Zika virus, according to Reuters.

Although the country has reported a small number of cases, it is expected that by summer, when mosquito season is at its peak, thousands there will be infected.

Jose O. Alsina, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Puerto Rico's Banco de Sangre de Servicios Mutuos, the island's largest blood bank, told Reuters the task to import the country's blood supply will cost up to $100,000 a week.

The supply change comes after the FDA recently said areas with domestic transmission of the virus must stop locally collecting blood.

According to the report, researchers are also trying to take an existing test for the virus and use it to temporarily screen blood from Puerto Rico.

New food packaging & processing solutions, all at PACK EXPO in Chicago
Experience the cutting edge of food packaging and processing innovation at PACK EXPO International this November. See machinery and equipment in action, discover new technologies, and learn sustainable solutions from experts, all in one place.
Read More
New food packaging & processing solutions, all at PACK EXPO in Chicago
Explore new technology from hundreds of life sciences suppliers.
At PACK EXPO International, you’ll find innovations from hundreds of exhibitors that specialize in pharmaceuticals, biologics, nutraceuticals, medical devices and more. No other show delivers as many solutions to keep your products safe and effective.
Read More
Explore new technology from hundreds of life sciences suppliers.