LifeShare offering coronavirus antibody testing with blood donation

June 1, 2020 at 5:11 p.m. | Updated June 1, 2020 at 5:55 p.m.

by Karl Richter

In this April 27, 2020, file photo, recovered COVID-19 patient Paul Butler donates plasma at LifeShare Blood Center in Texarkana, Texas. Butler was the first recovered patient to give plasma at the center in an effort to treat ill COVID-19 patients with antibodies produced by those who have recovered.
In this April 27, 2020, file photo, recovered COVID-19 patient Paul Butler donates plasma at LifeShare Blood Center in Texarkana, Texas. Butler was the first recovered patient to give plasma at the center in an effort to treat ill COVID-19 patients with antibodies produced by those who have recovered.

TEXARKANA, Texas - Through June 14, LifeShare Blood Center is offering free coronavirus antibody testing to those who donate blood.

The service is meant to encourage blood donations, according to a news release. Since the beginning of May, LifeShare has depleted more than 80% of its blood inventory.

The test detects antibodies created by the immune system in response to coronavirus infection and can indicate whether someone has been exposed.

"The antibody test is not intended for those who are currently experiencing coronavirus symptoms or who believe they may currently be infected. Blood donors should be individuals who are in good health. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their physician and not attempt to donate blood," the release stated.

If the test indicates the presence of coronavirus antibodies, the donor would be eligible to donate plasma to be used in the treatment of the most critically ill COVID-19 patients.

"LifeShare continues to practice social distancing at all blood drives, including additional space between donor beds, enhanced and more frequent cleanings, and the use of mask or face shields by all staff working with donors," the release stated.

For more information, visit LifeShare.org.

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