People who have had coronavirus are being urged to donate plasma ahead of any second wave.
The antibody-rich plasma of patients who have recovered could save the lives of people who develop Covid-19 in the next few weeks.
More than 829 donations have already been taken at the Newcastle donor centre so far.
However more donors are needed as around 10% of appointments are not being filled, due to the national reduction in cases.
There is a particular need for men to donate, because they are more likely to have high antibody levels.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) need as many people as possible to come forward from the first wave of infections. The donated plasma may contain neutralising antibodies which could stop the virus spreading.
An NHSBT spokesperson said: “The decline in infections is welcome but it has meant every potential donor is even more valuable.
“We urgently need people who have had coronavirus to donate now, ahead of any second wave. If you are from Newcastle and you’ve had coronavirus, your plasma donation could save lives.
“We especially want to hear from men, even if they’ve had the symptoms but no test result, as they have higher antibody levels.”
Covid-19 convalescent plasma is being collected at NHSBT’s 23 donor centres around the country, and several pop-up donor centres.
Plasma donation takes around 45 minutes and your body quickly replaces the donated plasma and antibodies.
NHSBT's clinical trials unit is leading on the trials, in collaboration with the Recovery and Remap-Cap platform work. The Newcastle donor centre is on Holland Drive, NE2 4NQ.
If you’ve had coronavirus, you can offer to donate on 0300 123 23 23 or on this dedicated website.
