PGH needs more plasma donors

MANILA, Philippines — Doctors are now relying on survivors of the coronavirus disease 2019 to help save the lives of those who are on the verge of losing the battle against COVID-19 infection.

Dr. Jonas del Rosario of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) yesterday called on those who recovered from the disease to donate blood plasma to help severe COVID-19 patients.

Del Rosario said experts from the PGH are undertaking trials to find a possible cure against the disease using plasma of those who survived the infection.

He said the Department of Health is looking at convalescent plasma therapy as “stop gap” regimen while vaccine is yet to be developed.

Del Rosario said over 100 COVID-19 patients are confined at the PGH, with some of them not responding to treatment.

“For them plasma therapy could be the last resort. So we are asking for more plasma donations from COVID-19 survivors,” he said.

He said 19 people have donated plasma. Five COVID-19 patients received blood transfusion.

Prospective donors may call the PGH hotline 155-200.