Area hospitals are strongly urging people that have recovered from COVID-19 to give convalescent plasma

Leadership from area hospitals are strongly urging people that have recovered from COVID-19 to give convalescent plasma with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, to help others currently in local hospitals suffering from the virus. Usage of plasma in area hospitals has skyrocketed over the past several weeks, causing a critical shortage. There has been a 337 percent increase in CCP usage in area hospitals between August and October of this year, and levels have continued to increase during the first few weeks of November. Chris Pilgrim with the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks said it’s simple to give convalescent plasma…

Antibodies present in plasma from recently recovered COVID-19 victims has been found to help those who currently have the virus

CBCO is taking steps to make it easier to give. Referrals by area physicians used to be required but now if a potential donor has either written or electronic proof of a positive COVID-19 test and has recovered from the illness for 14 days, they can give if they meet general donation requirements. CBCO is now also able to provide up to a $100 Visa gift card thanks to FDA funding for this incentive due to the critical need for these very specific donors. Convalescent plasma can be donated at the CBCO Blood Center in Springfield.
To make your donation appointment call 417-227-5324 during regular business hours.