I asked a few of my friends what all questions pop up in their mind when they think of plasma donation. Here’s a list of few frequently asked questions about donating plasma.

Upto how many months of getting COVID can I donate plasma?

Within 28 days to 3 months of your negative report and day of donation.

What happens to the rest of your blood after plasma is extracted?

The remaining blood is transferred back to your body. On average, it only takes 48 hours for the plasma to regenerate. Isn’t it amazing?

Can everyone who has recovered from COVID-19 donate plasma?

No. There’s an eligibility criteria.

Why do we need more and more people coming forward to donate?

With the strict eligibility criteria for donating, a lot of people already lose their chance to donate.

Which blood groups can donate?

With the number of cases we’re seeing every day. There’s almost a 100% chance that you’re exactly the blood group of someone who is in need and you’ll become their fighting chance if you donate.

Can you get vaccinated and still donate plasma?

In case you got vaccinated, you’ll have to wait for 28 days from the date of vaccination before you donate.  You may call the doctor or organisation that you chose before you go ahead. With the rise of plasma demands, it is advisable to get vaccinated after you donate plasma so that more and more lives can be saved.

What documents you should be carrying before you go to a centre to donate?

1. A negative COVID-19 report hard copy of the RT-PCR or antigen rapid test.
2. A copy of Aadhar card: front and back

How is the Delhi government facilitating donors at this time?

The Delhi government has come up with the country’s first plasma bank.

1. They will arrange for your transport to the ILBS Hospital in Vasant Kunj, or reimburse your travel cost. 
2. If you have not yet been tested negative after being tested positive for Covid initially, they will arrange for you to be tested.
3. They will provide refreshments during your visit to the Plasma Bank.
4. You will receive a Plasma Donor Certificate signed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Delhi.
5. Visit https://www.ilbs.in/plasma/  for more information

What’s the usual process of donation once you go to a hospital?

• The donor is usually first counselled and educated about the whole process. All the questions are answered. 
• If you do not have a negative report  with you, they’ll have your rapid antigen test which may take upto one hour.
• Certain tests are performed for which your blood sample might be taken.
• If they get the desired result, they will start with your plasma donation process which may take 30 minutes to an hour.
• You’re advised to relax and say under observation for the next 15-20 minutes.
• After getting some instruction and certificate at the end, you’re free to go.

Can the authority still reject you after you fall in eligible criteria?

Yes, if you don’t have enough antibodies in your blood.

What is the total time consumed in the process?

3-4 hours

Will you feel some sort of weakness after the process?

Not at all. Just have a fruit and some fluids and you’re good to go! You may also choose not to perform heavy exercises the same day. 

How often can you donate plasma?

As per ICMR guidelines, a donor can donate up to 500 ml of plasma (according to weight) more than once, with a gap of 15 days. 400 ml of plasma can save two lives. 

Watch this video to know more