The Red Cross has resumed testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies for a limited time. Results may indicate an antibody response after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine or possible past exposure to this coronavirus — and may identify donations with antibody levels necessary to potentially help COVID-19 patients with weakened immune systems.
The move comes after a rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations over the last few months. The volume of critically-ill patients is “overwhelming” to hospitals, stated the Red Cross website, and clinical trials show COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) can especially help immunocompromised patients. Blood donations with antibodies can be manufactured into CCP, and thus the Red Cross is not recruiting extra plasma donors.
More information is available at redcross.org.
The Daily American Republic and American Red Cross are sponsoring a community blood drive from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Mar. 8, at the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce located at 1111 W. Pine St. The event takes place in the chamber’s community room.