COVID-19 and Convalescent Plasma
Recovered from COVID-19? Your plasma may help other patients.
Submit interest by clicking the button below.
Submit Interest Form
Frequently Asked Questions About Donating COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma (CCP)
How can my plasma help other patients?
While COVID-19 has no proven treatment, plasma donated by those who have recovered (called convalescent plasma) may help patients fighting COVID-19. This is because your body has developed antibodies against the virus. Historically, convalescent plasma has been successfully used to treat similar diseases such as the Spanish Flu, SARS, MERS, and H1N1.
How do I qualify to donate convalescent plasma?
The first step is to fill out a form at sandiegobloodbank.org/donateplasma to express interest.
You may qualify if you had:
1. A positive test (including a positive antibody test) and have not had symptoms for 28 days.
2. A positive test, have not had symptoms for 14 days, and have a subsequent negative PCR test.
3. Symptoms and no test. Please fill out the form as more testing options may become available.
Donors must also meet the standard requirements for blood donation and will be screened at the time of donation.
Where can I donate COVID-19 convalescent plasma?
San Diego Blood Bank has locations throughout San Diego County. Once you are qualified, we will help you find a convenient location to donate.
What if I don’t have a copy of my test results?
San Diego Blood Bank can work with your healthcare provider to obtain proper records.
How many people will my CCP donation help?
Each plasma donation is usually 800-1000 mL and one dose for a COVID-19 patient is 200-250 mL. Your CCP donation can help as many as 3-4 people fight this virus!
What is the process for donating COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP)?
Plasma is donated through a process called apheresis. Your blood is collected and processed in real time to separate the plasma and return the rest of the blood components (red blood cells and platelets) back to you. The entire process, including registration and recovering in the canteen area for 15 minutes post donation takes approximately 75 minutes.
How often can I donate plasma?
Normal plasma donation intervals are every 4 weeks. Depending on how much is donated at one time, you may be able to donate convalescent plasma more frequently. San Diego Blood Bank will work with you directly to determine what is appropriate.
