Blood donors can help COVID patients

Donations at blood drives like one planned from 1 to 6 p.m. Oct. 12 at Goessel Mennonite Church, 109 S. Church, could help people suffering from COVID-19.

Plasma containing antibodies for the virus, derived from donations of whole blood, is sometimes used to help patients fighting COVID- 19. Now that the Red Cross is testing all donated blood for coronavirus antibodies, plasma may become more available.

At this time, 2% of donated blood tests positive. Appointments to donate are being accepted by phone at (800) 733-2767.

Special COVID-19 precautions, including temperature checks, social distancing, and face coverings for donors and staff, are being used at all blood drives.