Brazil updates blood donation rules and establishes Red June campaign

Brazil is implementing new regulations and legislative measures to bolster its blood donation system. Under new Ministry of Health rules set to take effect in October 2026, regular donors over the age of 70 will be permitted to continue donating, provided they remain in good health and pass clinical evaluations. The updated regulations also reduce waiting periods for certain temporary impediments, such as specific aesthetic procedures, and mandate malaria testing for all collected samples to enhance transfusion safety.

Additionally, Law 15.491 has been enacted to establish ‘Junho Vermelho’ (Red June), a national campaign designed to encourage regular blood donations through educational materials and public awareness initiatives. While the law mandates coordinated efforts between federal, state, and municipal governments, its execution is subject to available budget allocations.

The measures come amid reports of regional blood shortages. For instance, certain hemocentros have reported critical stock levels for specific blood types, such as O negative and B negative, highlighting the ongoing need for consistent donation rates to support surgeries and emergency medical treatments.