Port Huron, MI — The American Red Cross has still been experiencing a shortage of blood donations, and they want to inform the public that there is no waiting period to give blood after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
Those who receive a vaccine and want to donate blood can do so immediately as long as they are symptom-free, feeling well, and can provide the Red Cross with the vaccine manufacturer’s name.
When you become a blood, platelet, or plasma donor with the American Red Cross, your donation will automatically be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. If the test discovers high levels of antibodies present, your donation could be used to help COVID-19 patients who are actively fighting the virus recover more quickly.
They are also screening donations from self-identified African American donors for the sickle cell trait which provides donors with valuable health information and helps the Red Cross identify compatible blood types more quickly to help patients with sickle cell disease who require blood transfusions for treatment.
For more information about donating blood and to find a blood drive near you, visit Red CrossBlood.org.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
