Plasma bank to be set up in national capital

NEW DELHI: Delhi will set up a plasma bank to pool in blood rich in virus-fighting antibodies, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday, in a plan to help critically ill patients of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) have better access to one of the most effective treatment options yet.

Therapy through transfusion of plasma – a component of the blood – has been on in the national capital since April 22, weeks after global studies showed that the technique drastically improved the chances of recovery among people with severe Covid-19 illness.

“There is high demand for plasma therapy among people. The therapy helps stabilise respiratory rate,” said Kejriwal at a press briefing.