COVID-19 PLASMA DONATION: What you need to know!!
Most people with COVID-19 produce antibodies that help fight the disease. Their blood plasma could help patients still struggling to survive.
While the number of people dying from the novel coronavirus in the United States is on the decline, people are continuing to be infected with the virus throughout the country. Currently, experimental therapies remain the only treatment option for those sick with COVID-19.
What is Convalescent Plasma?
Convalescent refers to anyone recovering from a disease. Plasma is the yellow, liquid part of blood that contains antibodies. Antibodies are proteins made by the body in response to infections. Convalescent plasma from patients who have already recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may contain antibodies against COVID-19. Giving this convalescent plasma to hospitalized people currently fighting COVID-19 may help them recover.
If you have fully recovered from COVID-19, you may be able to help patients currently fighting the infection by donating your plasma.
Because you fought the infection, your plasma now contains COVID-19 antibodies. These antibodies provided one way for your immune system to fight the virus when you were sick, so your plasma may be able to be used to help others fight off the disease.
Qualifications for COVID-19 Plasma Donations
Within the past 2 weeks, you received a medical diagnosis of COVID-19 that was confirmed through positive viral test results (nasal swab PCR). Before your appointment, you will need to be symptom-free and fully recovered from COVID-19 for at least 14 days.
You are in good health, generally feel well, and are willing to make one or more plasma donations in Everett WA for COVID-19 research. Blood samples and saliva samples may also be collected.
You are between 18 and 68 years old and meet FDA and PlasmaLab requirements for plasma donation. Individuals over 68 may participate with physician approval.