Apheresis for collection of Ebola convalescent plasma in Liberia.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

This report describes initiation of apheresis capability in Liberia, Africa to support a clinical trial of convalescent plasma therapy for Ebola Virus Disease.

Methods

A bloodmobile was outfitted in the United States as a four-bed apheresis unit with capabilities including pathogen reduction, electronic blood establishment computer system, designated areas for donor counseling and laboratory testing, and onboard electrical power generation. After air transport to Liberia, the bloodmobile was positioned at ELWA Hospital, Monrovia, and connected to the hospital's power grid. Liberian staff were trained to conduct donor screening, which included questionnaire and onsite blood typing and transfusion transmitted infection (TTI) testing, and plasma collection and processin

SUBMITTER: Brown JF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5580942 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature