News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Blood Assurance is offering COVID-19 antibody testing until July 10.
The non-profit blood donation center is in need of convalescent plasma. Marketing Director Caitlin Stanley said the plasma contains antibodies a donor would have used to fight the virus.
“When they donate their plasma, that plasma can actually be transfused into a critically ill COVID-19 patient in the hospital and help them fight off the virus,” Stanley said.
Stanley said by donating blood at your local Blood Assurance, you could save three lives from the virus. She said anyone who qualifies to donate blood can schedule an appointment from now until the deadline.
“In order to be tested for the antibody, you have to donate blood,” Stanley said. “You do have to pass all the regular regulations to donate blood. If you’re a regular blood donor and you’ve donated with us before, it’s the same process. We will also test you for the antibody if you request to be tested.”
Stanley said it takes about a week for the results to be mailed to you. If you test positive for antibodies, Blood Assurance can still use the donated blood because COVID-19 is not a blood born illness.
You must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds, and be in good health to donate.
