Kentucky Blood Center testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies; 2 local blood drives scheduled

Published 9:16 am Tuesday, December 8, 2020

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Giving the gift of life just got more meaningful. Donating blood with Kentucky Blood Center is always good for the community, since blood donations stay local. Now, all donations are tested for COVID-19 antibodies, meaning you may be able to help a neighbor battling COVID-19 with your donation.

Blood donors who regularly donate at local blood drives ensure blood is on the shelf in the hospitals for their neighbors who may need blood due to accidents, injuries and other surgeries and illnesses, including COVID-19.

Plasma derived from donations that test positive for the COVID-19 antibody could be designated as convalescent plasma and used to treat patients fighting COVID-19 in our area. In addition, those with positive test results may be contacted regarding future convalescent plasma donations by our team.

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There are two local blood drives coming up. There will be a drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, at Central Baptist Church’s gym, 101 W. Lexington Ave. Another will be from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at Palmer Engineering, 400 Shoppers Drive, on the KBC Bloodmobile.

Blood donors must be 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo ID and meet additional requirements. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at kybloodcenter.org.

To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call 800-775-2522.