SCOTS, particularly those who have had coronavirus, have been urged to donate blood.
Jason Leitch, Scotland’s national clinical director, made the plea at the First Minister's coronavirus briefing, saying there has been an "amazing response" from donors during the pandemic.
He said the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service service is also working to advance the fight against Covid by collecting "convalescent plasma."
He adds research has shown that the blood of someone who has recently recovered from Covid may contain antibodies which can be used to treat people in hospital who are seriously unwell with the virus.
Leitch appealed to anyone who has tested positive for Covid or who has self isolated as they have symptoms - and are now symptom free for 28 days - to check their eligibility to donate.
“It is vital there are supplies for patients in Scotland at any time, but it is particularly important right now,” Leitch said.
He continued: “As health services restart, the demand for blood across Scotland is also increasing.
“Blood donations are needed, especially as we move towards winter.
“So if you have never donated, or if you haven’t recently donated, I would urge you to contact the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service and make an appointment to donate.”
Leitch stressed safety measures and strict social distancing are in place at donation centres, and sessions are running by appointment only.
“The blood transfusion service is also working to advance the fight against Covid-19 by collecting convalescent plasma at the donor sessions,” Prof Leitch added.
“Research is showing that the blood of someone who has recently recovered from Covid-19 may contain antibodies which we can use for treating people in hospital who are seriously unwell with the virus.
“The blood transfusion service is looking for new donors of convalescent plasma, so if you’ve had Covid-19 – either a confirmed positive test, or you’ve self-isolated because you’ve had symptoms, and if you are now symptom-free for 28 days – the blood transfusion service would like to hear from you.”
The SNBTS guidance says those who meet the usual eligibility criteria can donate convalescent plasma.
SNBTS associate director Lynne Willdigg said: “Time is of the essence. These antibodies reduce rapidly after four months so it’s critical to get in touch sooner rather than later.”
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