During this pandemic, hospitals are asking for plasma donations in order to help those who are suffering from COVID-19. Over 4,000 Kern residents have recovered from COVID-19, but only 100 people have donated convalescent plasma.

Houchin Community Blood Bank is offering an incentive to get those recovered in the door to help.

“We have had phenomenal results, where we’ve sent this plasma to these patients and within a day or two they are off the ventilator and going home,” said HCBB officials.

Between Monday, July 27 and Saturday, August 1, HCBB will be offering the following to all COVID-19 convalescent plasma donors:
· CCP donors will receive a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant
· CCP donors will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $500 gift card (two drawings per day)

Convalescent plasma is the liquid portion of your blood that is collected from recovered COVID-19 patients. COVID-19 patients develop antibodies that help fight against the virus, which can be found in their plasma. This form of treatment is being used to help critically ill patients that are currently suffering from COVID-19.

“So Covid-19 patients have already developed the antibodies to fight the virus, that is why it is so important to reach those people.”

To donate, the following requirements must be met:
· Meet regular blood donation requirements
· Have tested positive for COVID-19 or for the antibody
· Must be completely symptom free for 14 consecutive days

Local hospitals say they are in desperate need of the community's help, and they have even reached out to places outside of Kern County due to the plasma shortage.

“If you’re one of those people and you want to help, this is something that you can do to get out of the house in a safe and clean environment where nobody comes here unless they’re well, and you can feel very comfortable, saving someone else’s life who has really got it bad.”

To donate, call the HCBB hotline number at (661) 616-2575. Appointments are required.