When in need, it’s all good.
The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has reduced the abstinence period for men having gay sex from twelve to three months announcing a significant loosening in blood donations rules all over the country.
FDA statement said that it had “concluded that recent policies regarding certain donor eligibility criteria can be modified without compromising the safety of the bloody supply.” The reason behind this decision is the pandemic caused by Covid-19.
Yes, of course! Because it is so need right now.
LGBT+ activists have welcomed this new decision, and Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD president and chief executive, said:
“LGBT+ Americans can hold their heads up today and know that our voices will always triumph over discrimination. This is a victory for all of us who spoke out against the discriminatory ban on gay and bisexual men donating blood. The FDA’s decision to lower the deferral period on men who have sex with men from 12 months to three months is a step towards being more in line with science, but remains imperfect. We will keep fighting until the deferral period is lifted and gay and bi men, and all LGBTQ people, are treated equal to others.”
Also politicians, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, signed a letter criticising the FDA for its lack of action in lowering the deferral period in such a moment of our history. The letter also said:
“This antiquated policy is not based on current science, stigmatises the LGBT+ community, and undermines crucial efforts to increase the nation’s blood supply as the United States grapples with the coronavirus crisis.”
But no worries! The FDA has said that they will remain once the situation returns to normal.
