WHAT IS COVID CONVALESCENT PLASMA (CCP)?
Convalescent plasma is present in a person who has had a disease and recovered. Antibodies are formed to fight infection and are directed at a specific infection. For COVID-19, a recovered person now has antibody to SARS-CoV-2, the virus which causes COVID-19.
WHO RECEIVES COVID CONVALESCENT PLASMA?
CCP is requested by a physician and transfused to assist in the recovery of those gravely ill with COVID-19. This treatment approach has been used in other disease situations (e.g. SARS, MERS, H1N1, Ebola).
IS DONATING CCP SAFE?
Yes, the donation process for CCP is done using plasmapheresis. In this procedure blood is drawn from your arm and separated into plasma and red cells. The blood center keeps the plasma for transfusion and returns the red cells to you. The process takes about 45 minutes.
YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO DONATE CONVALESCENT PLASMA IF:
- You have tested positive for COVID-19, documented by a laboratory test
- You have recovered from COVID-19 and have not had any symptoms for at least 14 days prior to donating plasma
If you are eligible, schedule an appointment with LifeShare Blood Center to make a donation!
WHAT YOU NEED TO DONATE:
- An appointment made in advance.
- Meet all requirements and have Physician Order Form completed by your doctor confirming you are eligible to donate plasma.
- This must be faxed to LifeShare prior to your appointment.
CLICK HERE for the COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Collection Physician Order Form. This form must be completed by your doctor to confirm donation eligibility and faxed to LifeShare in advance of donation appointment.
Call LifeShare at 318-673-1436 for more information. Visit WWW.LIFESHARE.ORG for donation center locations.