Plasma donation for Corona patients:

You can donate about two weeks after recovery. "It's a simple process," explains MDA blood services director, Prof. Eilat Shner, "taking blood from the donor's blood that is recovering from the virus, the blood enters the machine that separates the plasma component and transfers it to a special bag, with all other blood components returned to the body. The goal is to collect a volume of about 600 ml, and the process takes a total of about 40 minutes. Magen David Adom's apheresis unit (blood separation for its components) has been operating for many years, similar processes have been done in the past, and we have extensive experience in these treatments. "

To the newsletter about the contribution of Paresis click here Donations can be directed to his number 03-9101101 Or by email hadarm@mda.org.il

Why donate plasma?

Plasma is the liquid part of the blood that contains important proteins, which are especially needed for patients suffering from burns, newborns, liver patients, transplant patients, and hemophilia patients who need treatment. Anyone can help save lives by donating their plasma using a state-of-the-art automated method. One plasma dose can be separated from each blood dose.

What is plasmapheresis?

Plasmapheresis is a donation process that is done through an automatic instrumentation that allows the donor to give only the plasma component in his blood, and get back to the body all other blood components. The latest and most sophisticated technology makes it possible to give your special plasma donation quickly and easily.

Who can donate plasma?
Any healthy person who meets the requirements of blood services for regular blood donation is eligible to be a donor of paresis.

Is this a new process?
Plasmapheresis has been in progress for many years. Technological advances have made the process simple and automated, making it easier for the donor. The blood drawn from the arm goes into the separation device, rather than flowing directly into the bag, as it does with normal blood donation. When blood is inside the device, the plasma is separated from the red cells, while the other components - red cells and white cells - are returned to the donor. The whole process is done through one needle.
By this method, three plasma doses of the same donation can be prepared.

How long does the process take?

Unlike a standard blood donation that lasts about half an hour, the plasma donation in the paresis method takes about 40 minutes, because of the time needed to separate the plasma from the other blood components during the donation.

Why is it important to donate plasma through the automated system?

The donated plasma will help a patient who needs it and may save human lives. The important advantage is that patients are at least exposed to donors, because through the special process more plasma doses can be collected safely. This method is particularly important for donors with blood type AB whose plasma has important value because it can be given to any recipient.

How often can I donate plasma?

As a rule, plasma can be donated once every eight weeks. The restrictions vary from one blood bank to another.

Does it hurt?

Blood donation is not painful, as is plasma donation. Only feel a slight stab when the needle is inserted into the arm.

Are there any side effects?

Because during this process, only blood platelets are taken from you and the rest of the blood is returned to your body, many of the side effects people feel when they donate a full blood dose are avoided. In contrast, sometimes some donors will feel a tingling sensation around the lips and nose during the donation. This is an easy response to a blood clotting-driven substance used in the process and can be stopped soon. You may feel a slight sense of cold.
If so - please state this and it will cover you with a blanket and serve you a warm drink.

Is it safe?

Definitely yes. People tend to associate blood donation with the fear of contracting AIDS. But there is no connection and no risk: the sets are disposable and safe and the lifters are experienced.
The automatic system is designed so that the emphasis is on safety. All stages of the process are controlled by computerized and sophisticated sensors. The blood enters a sterile plastic tube system that is replaced with every donation.

In rare cases the donor may feel dizzy or slightly nauseous, and the effects are also caused by a full blood donation. The process oversees a professional and skilled person to help you and answer all your questions.

Can I still donate full blood?

Definitely yes. For details, please contact the MDA blood services unit at Tel Hashomer complex.

To the newsletter about the contribution of Paresis click here Donations can be directed to his number 03-9101101 Or by email hadarm@mda.org.il