Since all needles, syringes, tubing and containers are used only once, there is absolutely no danger of contracting AIDS by donating blood according to the American Red Cross. Donated blood is now screened for contamination, and the risk of contracting AIDS by this route is as low as it was in 1977.
The belief that donating blood is a means of contracting AIDS has caused a critical shortage of blood in this country. Therefore, if you are healthy, have not used IV drugs or engaged in sex with a male homosexual/bisexual since 1977, and have not engaged in prostitution, or have not had sex with a prostitute in at least six months, contact your local Red Cross to become a blood donor.