The Red Cross is asking for anybody who was diagnosed with the coronavirus and recovered to give blood plasma as soon as possible. The organization believes the donations may help those currently fighting the virus.
According to the Red Cross’ website, the plasma of a recovered patient “will have antibodies in their blood plasma that help protect them against future infections.”
Studies have not yet definitively proven that plasma from recovered patients, termed “convalescent plasma” by the medical community, is an effective treatment against COVID-19.
The FDA is currently investigating convalescent plasma and its potential uses. The Red Cross says that there is some information that indicates “convalescent plasma could help some coronavirus patients – especially those who are seriously ill.”
Alabama Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth encouraged recovered patients to donate via Twitter on Tuesday, saying, “If you’ve recovered from COVID-19 infection, this is your chance to help someone.”
The head of Jefferson County’s Department of Health, Dr. Mark Wilson, likewise encouraged donations of convalescent plasma. He tweeted that a donation “could potentially help save someone’s life.”
Former COVID-19 patients wishing to donate their plasma can go here.
A never-infected citizen who wants to make a normal blood donation can go here or here.
Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: [email protected] or on Twitter @HenryThornton95.
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