by Kevin Zimmermann
SHEBOYGAN, WI (WHBL) – For a limited time, the American Red Cross is testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies, providing insight into whether the donor has been exposed to the coronavirus. Antibody testing tells you if you’ve been exposed even if you never had symptoms.
Donations will be tested using samples normally pulled when you donate, which are then sent to a lab for routine detection of infectious diseases. For now, results of the COVID-19 antibody test, authorized by the FDA, will be available on the Red Cross Blood Donor app, or on the donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.
The need for blood remains critical and donors are always needed. Locally, the next blood drives are scheduled at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Sheboygan Falls from 11 till 4 on Wednesday, and at the Sheboygan Trades and Labor Hall from 10 till 3 Friday. You can also find a drive or schedule a donation at RedCrossBlood.org.
