Written by Taylor Fourier<\/p>\n
As the convalescent plasma supply is approaching a significantly low level due to the increasing coronavirus hospitalization and case numbers, the San Diego Blood Bank is calling for help from our community; specifically from those who have recovered from COVID-19.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Convalescent plasma is obtained from individuals who have recovered COVID-19.<\/span><\/p>\n The blood from those who have recovered includes antibodies, <\/span>proteins produced by the immune system in order to destroy viruses,<\/span> which are then injected into patients who are currently battling the disease. The influx of antibodies from a recovered individual assists the immune system of people currently infected.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n CEO of the San Diego Blood Bank David Wellis stated, \u201cBefore people can generate their own antibodies or enough antibodies, w<\/span>e can provide those antibodies by collecting that plasma from someone who has recovered and then infusing into someone who is sick.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n