CALDWELL, Idaho — West Valley Medical Center is participating in a national study to determine if plasma from recovered COVID-19 patients may benefit those hospitalized with severe cases of the virus. Eligible volunteers are encouraged to donate plasma to help those in need.
“I am very excited that through HCA Healthcare our hospital is now participating in a COVID-19 treatment trial. We are asking for the help of our community to spread awareness about plasma donation for patients facing COVID-19 not only here in Idaho, but across the country,” says Betsy Hunsicker, West Valley Medical Center Chief Executive Officer.
There is no proven treatment for people diagnosed with coronavirus, but there is a history of successful viral infection treatment using plasma. After someone recovers from a virus, their blood has antibodies that their immune system made to help them fight off the virus. By infusing plasma into patients with severe cases, their immune system might effectively be able to fight the virus.
Recent examples of this approach have occurred during outbreaks of SARS-1 and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). More clinical data and plasma donations are needed to determine the effectiveness in treating COVID-19.
To learn where you can donate, click here or call the American Red Cross Donation Center in Boise at 1-800-733-2767.
