The NHS is urgently appealing for people who have recovered from Covid-19 to come forward and donate plasma.
Plasma, a yellow substance which is extracted from blood, can be used in life-saving treatment for people still fighting the coronavirus.
The donor plasma contains antibodies against the virus which can be transfused into people who are struggling to develop their own immune response.
According to NHS Blood and Transplant, there have already been more than 500 donations of plasma at the Newcastle centre - but much more is needed.
Those who have had a positive test are asked to come forward and chip in. There is a particular need for male donors but females are also strongly urged to donate.
Professor Dave Roberts, associate director for blood donation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Every new offer to donate is incredibly valuable. We particularly need men to come forwards as they generally have higher antibody levels.
“We need to collect convalescent plasma now, to make sure plasma is readily available for the trial to treat people currently in hospital.
“Donations can also be frozen to ensure convalescent plasma is readily available, should there be a rise in infections in the coming weeks.
“Please, help the NHS fight Covid-19 by donating at Newcastle donor centre. You could save lives.”
Convalescent plasma is being collected at 23 donor centres around the country, and several pop-up donor centres.
It only takes about 45 minutes and you can donate plasma as often as every two weeks.
Crucially, your body usually replaces the plasma you’ve donated in 24-48 hours as well as antibodies developed to provide immunity to the virus.
Potential donors are being prioritised according to who is likely to have higher antibody levels. Some people will be asked to make a short visit first to give a blood sample, to confirm their antibody levels are high enough for the trial.
