During Carnival 2025, blood donations experienced a staggering 70% decrease compared to the same period last year, prompting health officials to urge residents and visitors to contribute to local blood banks. The Fundação Hemoba, responsible for blood donations in Bahia, reported only 372 volunteers who came forward to donate blood, resulting in 268 bags collected. This was markedly lower than Carnival 2024, which saw 1,162 candidates and 890 bags collected during the first three days of the festivities.
This dramatic drop has raised concerns among health authorities, noting the impact of the celebration atmosphere, which often distracts party-goers from the important act of donation. State Health Secretary Roberta Santana addressed these concerns, stating, "Carnaval é tempo de festa, mas também deve ser tempo de cuidado e empatia. Eu queria fazer um chamado aos baianos e turistas para a doação de sangue, esse gesto tão simples, que ajuda a salvar vidas." Santana highlighted the importance of blood donation as not just a civic duty but also as a gesture of solidarity and care for the community.
Despite the decline, there was some good news; during the same timeframe, Hemoba reported two donations of platelets, which had not occurred at all the previous year. There was also some interest shown for bone marrow donation, with 13 registrations noted compared to 15 the prior year, reflecting some level of public awareness and willingness to contribute beyond standard blood donations.
To combat the decrease, Hemoba arranged extended operating hours for blood donation centers, encouraging those who may not be participating fully in Carnival activities to donate. "Hoje, a gente faz um chamado à população... quem não está curtindo a folia pode ir lá fazer esse ato de solidariedade e amor," Santana urged, reitering the need for action from those available.
On Monday, March 3rd, the day after the festivities, the Hemocentro located on Vasco da Gama will operate from 7 AM to 6 PM, and the mobile collection unit stationed at Shopping Bela Vista will be accessible from noon to 6 PM. On Tuesday, March 4th, the schedule remains active with the Hemocentro open from 7 AM to 4:30 PM. The stakeholders aimed to provide ample opportunity for residents to donate blood as many could take time off from festivities.
Health authorities are not just focused on blood donations but are also monitoring general health conditions during the Carnival period. Reports indicated 56 medical occurrences requiring hospital attention related to festivities as of early Sunday morning, March 2nd. This included various state hospitals addressing health needs stemming from the celebration atmosphere.
Health initiatives during Carnival also included testing for sexually transmitted infections at strategically located testing stations—known as Fique Sabendo—throughout Salvador. By early Sunday morning, these stations had provided nearly 1,500 tests, with treatment initiated for individuals who tested positive. These initiatives combined aim to maintain public health during one of the largest festivities of the year.
Despite the joyous atmosphere of Carnival, the message concerning donation and public health stands firm. With operational hours clearly communicated and blood donation efforts boosted, health officials hope for increased participation as the festivities continue.
Individuals wishing to donate blood must meet several criteria: they must be at least 16 years old and weigh over 50 kg, and those under 18 must be accompanied by guardian approval. Donors should not be fasting or under the influence of alcohol for 12 hours prior to donating. Smoking should also be avoided two hours before donation, and participants are encouraged to manage their diet, avoiding fatty foods up to four hours before the procedure.
The first three days of Carnival serve as just the beginning for many tourists and locals, but it's also prime time to raise awareness around the need for blood and platelet donations. The hope is to shift the public's focus from revelry to philanthropy, sparking greater engagement among communities.
With additional screenings and testing efforts underway throughout the Carnival period, the focus on health and well-being reflects the comprehensive strategy health organizations have to encompass not just celebration, but responsible care for fellow citizens.