The infected blood scandal, a significant NHS tragedy, resulted in over 30,000 individuals contracting HIV and hepatitis C from contaminated blood products and transfusions between 1970 and 1991. The upcoming public inquiry findings may prompt an apology from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, but victims emphasise the irreparable harm caused.
Key issues include accountability, victim support, concealment attempts, and prevention measures, with interim compensation already provided to thousands pending final compensation plans.
1. Over 30,000 people were infected with HIV and hepatitis C due to contaminated blood products and transfusions from 1970 to 1991.
2. Victims include haemophiliacs and individuals requiring blood transfusions for various medical reasons.
3. Contaminated Factor VIII and Factor IX treatments, some sourced from the US, contributed to the spread of deadly viruses.
4. Victims express scepticism towards potential government apologies, emphasising the irreparable loss and damage caused by the scandal.
5. Public inquiry expected to address issues such as government accountability, support for victims, concealment attempts, and prevention measures.
6. Interim reports by Sir Brian in 2022 and 2023 recommended compensation for victims, with interim payouts already made to thousands of survivors and bereaved partners.
7. Final compensation plans pending the inquiry’s report, with projected costs likely to be substantial, running into billions of pounds.
