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Several local hospitals that are part of the Bon Secours Richmond and HCA Virginia groups will begin participating in convalescent plasma procedures for COVID-19 patients. The process collects plasma from the blood of those who have had the virus and recovered from it (defined as being symptom-free for at least 28 days) and then administers it to patients who are at high risk of progression to a severe or life-threatening stage of the disease.
Convalescent plasma has been safely collected and used at various times over the past century to treat polio, measles, hepatitis B, influenza, Ebola and other pathogens. Recently, it’s also been used during outbreaks of coronaviruses like SARS-1, and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), but additional clinical data – and more plasma donations – are needed to determine efficacy in treating COVID-19, according to healthcare officials.
In Henrico, Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital and Henrico Doctors’ Hospital will be participating in the initiative.
Anyone who tested positive for the virus and has since tested negative can help by donating plasma through the American Red Cross or another local donation center. To find out more about the donation process, eligibility and locations to donate in Central Virginia, you can call Bon Secours at 888-700-9011 or HCA Virginia at 833-582-1971.
