An immunoserological study among blood donors of Makkah region, Saudi Arabia.

Blood services are inevitable and life-saving. Therefore all measures should be taken to guarantee that the donated blood is pathogen free. The present study intends to throw some light on the prevalence of some infectious and parasitic diseases among blood donors, whether Saudi or expatriates residing in Makkah region (Makkah and Jeddah cities). Results of this work indicate that hepatatis B is one of the most important problems involved in blood services in this region. On the contrary sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis and AIDS do not comprise a real health problem so far. However, periodic check-up and intensive health education are of utmost importance. Hydatidosis does not constitute a real problem as dogs are mostly avoided in this region.