by Kevin Zimmermann
(WHBL) – As research continues on the use of convalescent plasma to treat COVID-19 patients, any donations through the American Red Cross could now help the efforts.
Previously, individuals who’d been diagnosed with COVID-19 could donate at only about 1 out of 170 donation centers across the country. Their antibody-laden plasma is critical to those fighting the disease. Now, all Red Cross blood drives are able to test for the antibodies, making much more convalescent plasma available.
Dr. Erin Goodhue of the Red Cross said that all donations that test positive for COVID-19 antibodies will undergo more testing to confirm the results, and every donation is important in the coronavirus battle as only about 2% of the population has the needed antibodies.
To encourage donations, the Red Cross will offer $1,000 Amazon.com Gift Cards to five lucky winners who donate in October, and those who donate before the end of September will receive a Sport Clips Haircuts coupon by email.
You’ll find terms, conditions and other details when you schedule a donation appointment at RedCrossBlood.org.
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