Survivors are urged to donate plasma

PEOPLE who have recovered from Covid-19 have been urged to help others by donating their plasma.

Health authorities in Bahrain have so far received plasma donations from 200 patients who recovered from the coronavirus.

National Task Force for Combating Coronavirus monitoring committee head Lt Col Dr Manaf Al Qahtani described the donation process as a “national and human” duty. “This is a national and human duty, the door is open for donations,” said Dr Al Qahtani.

“We received about 200 donors and appreciate their support, and we look forward to receiving more donations.”

The GDN previously reported that Bahrain completed a clinical trial of plasma therapy on 40 patients, and the results were being analysed by experts.

The country initiated the treatment in April, which entails taking antibody-rich plasma donated by patients recovered from Covid-19 and injecting it into patients who are severely suffering from the disease.

“Bahrain, like other countries, began its early clinical trials to eradicate the virus that invaded the world, and continues its efforts to develop its therapeutic protocol and began treatment with recovered plasma,” added Dr Al Qahtani.

“Last April, a team was formed to implement clinical research related to the coronavirus, headed by Major General Professor Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Medical Services.

“To summarise, we have seen that when plasma is given at the right time, symptoms are mild and it helps patients at an early stage and reduces the use of artificial oxygen and ventilators.

“Donating plasma will not affect your immunity, it will only help.”

The donor must have recovered from Covid-19 and must have no symptoms when donating plasma and must have completed the 14-day quarantine period post-recovery, with a negative nasal swab result.

The donor must also weigh above 50kgs and must be aged between 21 and 60.

Source: http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/825675/Survivors-are-urged-to-donate-plasma