Manchester target area for COVID-19 plasma donations

Manchester has been identified by NHS Blood and Transplant as one of three key target areas for convalescent plasma donations from people who have recovered from COVID-19.

The blood donor centres in Plymouth Grove and Norfolk House have been remodelled to greatly increase the capacity for plasma donations.

Over the next fortnight, there are 42 plasma donation appointment slots at Norfolk House and 66 at Plymouth Grove.

Nationally, there is a particular need for people to come forward as donors in Manchester, London and Birmingham.

NHSBT is collecting convalescent plasma for a major coronavirus treatment trial, and if the trial is successful, widespread use in hospitals. The antibody-rich plasma of people who have recovered can be transfused into people are struggling to develop their own immune response.

The number of appointments in Manchester will increase further as the national plasma programme expands.

NHS Blood and Transplant is asking people from Manchester who recovered from COVID-19 following a test or isolating due to the symptoms to offer to donate by calling 0300 123 23 23 or visiting www.nhsbt.nhs.uk

People who are male, aged over 35, or needed hospital treatment, are most likely to have the highest antibody levels. Their plasma is most likely to be able to save lives.

Prof David Roberts, NHS Blood and Transplant's Associate Medical Director for Blood Donation said: