Every week, Australia needs 27,000 donations from volunteers to ensure there is an adequate supply of blood and blood products for those who need it. People who give blood may feel light-headed and nauseous – Red Cross Blood Service donation centres keep a close eye on donors after their donation to reduce the risk of more serious side effects. People need to have donated blood and blood products for many different reasons – after surgery, after accidents, after giving birth and more. A few need donations regularly for genetic conditions like haemophilia. Some people who received donated blood have a fever, while a very small number get infections. About 1 in 3 Australians will need a blood transfusion at some time in their lives. Follow the links below to find trusted information about blood transfusion.