Trends in blood donations, blood donors' knowledge, practices and expectations during the COVID-19 pandemic in Cameroon

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by a novel coronavirus, has already affected over 99 062 people in 53 African countries and killed 3082. The pandemic threatens blood supply but we do not yet know its impact on blood donations or on the perceptions and expectations of donors. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in four hospital-based blood services in Cameroon, using a survey design and focusing on the subjective and cultural aspects of donors. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, we collected the participants' responses as to their understanding of COVID-19 and of current protection measures, and their expectations. Data on trends of blood donations were collected retrospectively for the period from 1st January to 30th April 2019 and the same period in 2020. Results Of 494 donors included, 432 (87 center dot 4%) were enrolled from fixed blood collection sites and 62 (12 center dot 6%) were contacted by phone. A total of 464 (93 center dot 9%) participants believed that the COVID-19 is a lung disease, but some declared it to be imaginary (7 center dot 7%), a foreign disease (8 center dot 3%) or a blood-borne disease (3 center dot 2%). The participants reported that the distribution of face masks and hydroalcoholic solutions (92 center dot 5%), social distancing and hygiene (6 center dot 3%) are the most important measures that need to be in place for safe donation. The number of blood donations dropped by 21 center dot 5% between 2019 and 2020. Conclusion Most of the donors know COVID-19, its transmission routes and manifestations. In the absence of barrier measures, they perceive blood donation as a threat to their health. Distribution of masks and hydroalcoholic solution might motivate more donors and improve the blood supply.