If a convalescent plasma program proves to be a successful treatment, more people recovering could potentially lead to even more people recovering.
Dr. Michael Joyner, a lead researcher of the Mayo Clinic’s convalescent plasma program, said they’d administer the product to a range of patients, including those already in the intensive care unit, to understand how it impacts the course of their virus. But, the number of people who can potentially be helped is dependent on survivors donating.
“I think it’s very important for the general public to understand this is not like a drug where we can increase the number of shifts and ramp up the production line at a drug company,” Joyner said. “This is a biological product that has to be obtained from a specific set of patients.”
Potential donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, be in good health and feeling well and be symptom-free for at least 14 days prior to donation, according to the Red Cross.