Rapid and Successful Implementation of a COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Programme-The South African Experience.

ABSTRACT:

Background

COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) has been considered internationally as a treatment option for COVID-19. CCP refers to plasma collected from donors who have recovered from and made antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. To date, convalescent plasma has not been collected in South Africa. As other investigational therapies and vaccination were not widely accessible, there was an urgent need to implement a CCP manufacture programme to service South Africans.

Methods

The South African National Blood Service and the Western Cape Blood Service implemented a CCP programme that included CCP collection, processing, testing and storage. CCP units were tested for SARS-CoV-2 Spike ELISA and neutralising antibodies and routine blood transfusion parameters. CCP units from previously preg

SUBMITTER: Glatt TN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8539971 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature