As?COVID-19 cases continue to surge in India, there is a growing shortage of beds, oxygen, medicines and plasma donors. The healthcare system is reeling under pressure as a second wave threatens to cause damage that could have far-reaching consequences.??
But in the midst of crisis, good Samaritans are chipping in to provide help, in any way they can. Now, a doctor in Bengaluru has donated convalescent plasma for the ninth time.?
52-year-old Dr Srikanth V, a senior consultant plastic surgeon from Manipal Hospitals, was found COVID-positive in August last year. Post recovery, he has been a regular plasma donor with the hospital's blood bank.?
While it is not clear how long COVID-recovered patient can donate plasma, the only criteria observed is the spike protein antibody levels detected prior to the donation, Times of India reported.??
Also read:?This Is Why You Should Not Panic Looking For Plasma Or Remdesivir For COVID Positive Patients
Convalescent plasma therapy?or CPT involves transfusing blood from a recently recovered COVID-19 patient to another patient infected with the disease. Patients who have recovered from COVID-19 have antibodies in their blood, which could help others fight off the infection.??
The lack of plasma banks and education regarding the subject, has rendered plasma an orphaned therapy.?
Also read:?Visit These Websites To Check Availability Of Remdesivir, COVID Beds In Hospitals & Plasma
Dr Srikanth, however, has debunked misconceptions and said that COVID antibodies do not wane with plasma donation. Dr Srikanth undergoes the mandatory COVID spike protein antibody test every time before donating the plasma. And so far, they have remained much higher than the permissible limits in his case.?
The Bengaluru-based doctor has urged everyone who has recovered from COVID to donate their plasma saying it's the need of the hour, considering drug shortage.?
Also read:?Woman Allegedly Finds Plasma Donor For Her Covid-Positive Friend On Tinder