Convalescent plasma questions answered

As of Jan. 28, there have been 3,441 COVID-19 cases among MDOC staff.

Many officers have inquired about how they can donate convalescent plasma in hopes of helping those with severe cases. Convalescent plasma has antibodies that help the patient by giving their immune system a boost to fight the virus.

If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or suspect that you have had the virus, you may donate. All donations are tested for antibodies. In order to be eligible to donate convalescent plasma, you must have recovered at least 14 days ago with no symptoms. Women who have ever been pregnant will need additional blood tests before donating.

Here is a full list of where you can donate convalescent plasma in Michigan. You may also ask your local blood center if there are options to donate convalescent plasma in your area.

Those who are interested in donating can visit Versiti.org for more information or sign up with American Red Cross.  Those with questions may contact Michigan Versiti  Blood Center of Michigan at (866) 642-5663 or the Red Cross.

–Story by Mikaela Bliven