Sheffield patients' plasma being used for coronavirus trials

The city’s blood donor centre, on Church Street in the city centre, has now taken more than 110 convalescent donations from people who have recovered from Covid-19.

NHS Blood and Transplant is collecting plasma for a trial, which, if successful, will have widespread use in hospitals.

A spokesman said: “The antibody rich plasma of people who have recovered can be transfused into people are struggling to develop their own immune response.

“The plasma with the most antibodies tends to come from people who were more ill. For this reason, there is a particular need for recovered donors who are male, or who are aged over 35, or who were hospitalised. Their plasma is more likely to be able to save lives.”

Prof David Roberts, NHS Blood and Transplant associate medical director for blood donation, said: “Thank you to everyone in Sheffield for donating convalescent plasma to try to save lives. We need more donors and we want to hear from people who have had the coronavirus. Convalescent plasma donation is safe and easy. If you get the call, please donate. Help your NHS fight Covid-19.”

Convalescent plasma donation takes about 45 minutes, during which time you can sit back and relax.

Your body usually replaces the plasma you have donated in 24-48 hours and you can get on with your normal day after donating.

Your body quickly replaces the antibodies and people can donate plasma as often as every two weeks.

To donate convalescent plasma call 0300 123 2323, or visit www.nhsbt.nhs.uk​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​