WISCONSIN — Red Cross blood donors now have a new opportunity to help COVID-19 patients by donating blood.
Donors who sign up to donate blood or plasma that test positive for COVID antibodies can now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions, according to the American Red Cross.
Back in April, the Red Cross began to take these blood and plasma donations at 170 different Red Cross locations. Now, however, these donations can be made at any Red Cross location across the country.
These donations contain antibodies that can help critical COVID-19 patients battle the virus.
“With approximately 2% of the U.S. population testing positive for COVID-19 antibodies, every donation is important to ensure patients with coronavirus have access to every treatment option available to them," said Dr. Erin Goodhue, executive medical director of direct patient care with the Red Cross Biomedical Services.
If you had COVID-19 in the past and have the antibodies, or if you think you may have the antibodies, schedule an appointment to donate at any Red Cross location.
To find a blood drive near you, click here.
In an effort to encourage people to donate, the Red Cross is offering a $1,000 Amazon.com gift card to five lucky winners who come to give in October. Additionally, those who come to give by the end of September will receive a free haircut coupon to participating Sport Clips Haircuts locations.