LifeStream testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies

Lifestream blood donation will be tested for the COVID-19 antibody at all Blood Bank donor centers and mobile drives effective immediately.

The test identifies those who possibly had or have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 in the past.

The test is performed on donor blood, it is not a nasal swab.

Results will be released approximately two weeks after donating. Donors can view their results by logging into their donor accounts.

The antibody test is authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and will indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to the virus, regardless of whether they ever showed symptoms.

Those who have recovered from COVID-19 may have immune-boosting antibodies in their plasma – called "convalescent plasma" – that could be used to treat critically ill virus patients, according to LifeStream.

A number of LifeStream hospital partners, operating under FDA protocols, are prepared to refer potential donors who have recovered for at least 14 days after their symptoms completely resolved.

Donors are not charged for the tests.

"The testing brings many benefits," said Rick Axelrod, MD, LifeStream’s chief executive officer. "In addition to donors learning if they have the antibody, LifeStream can identify donors who can be COVID-19 convalescent plasma donors and help those who are currently ill."

Criteria for eligibility are available at www.LStream.org/covidplasma and potential donors may be referred using instructions on that site.

"Though convalescent plasma has not been fully proven to be effective in patients with COVID-19, there are encouraging signs from early studies," said Dr. Joe Chaffin, LifeStream’s chief medical officer. "By collecting this product, LifeStream is proud to help hospitals develop better understanding of the use of convalescent plasma for patients in desperate need."

The antibody tests are part of a full panel of tests that LifeStream performs on successful blood donations, which includes the standard infectious disease testing.

LifeStream requires staff and donors to wear a face covering and submit to a temperature check and COVID-19 symptoms check before being allowed into donor waiting areas. The company is also following social distancing guidelines by reconfiguring donor waiting areas and beds. There is also an increase in cleaning and disinfecting protocols.

LifeStream provides blood products and services to more than 80 hospitals in six Southern California counties.

Appointments are recommended; walk-ins welcome at all LifeStream locations.

For more information about COVID-19 Antibody Testing with Blood Donation, visit www.LStream.org/covid-19/antibodytesting.

To set an appointment to give blood, call 800-879-4484 or visit LStream.org.

For more information on donating convalescent plasma, call 909-386-6837 or visit www.LStream.org/covidplasma.