NHS ASKS PEOPLE WHO’VE HAD VIRUS TO DONATE PLASMA

THE NHS has asked people in Derbyshire who have had coronavirus to become blood plasma donors.

Those who have been confirmed with Covid can give plasma to help save lives across the UK. Volunteers have been asked to donate at blood centres including Nottingham, Leicester and Sheffield.

Donations will contribute to vital research into blood plasma treatment for the virus, and could help provide an effective treatment for routine use in the NHS. This treatment could then be expanded at hospitals across Derbyshire.

While anyone who has had coronavirus can take part in trials, there is a special need for those who were most seriously ill to donate. This is because these people generally have the highest antibody levels to protect against the virus.

The NHS has also said men, those over 35 and people from an Asian community are likely to have higher levels of antibodies.

Lee Griffiths, of Hilton, has donated five times at the Nottingham Donor Centre.

The 37-year-old was ill with Covid in March, and said: “I was really happy to be called forward after applying online.

“Given the severity of the global situation, knowing NHS staff myself, clapping the NHS, and generally feeling helpless towards the situation, I now have a sense of pride being able to be part of the fight against the virus.

“When you donate, it’s nice to sit back, listen, read, catch up on emails whilst having some good chat with the staff. The team make it extremely simple and comfortable from start to finish.”

People can volunteer at www. nhsbt.nhs.uk.