Saving Arizona Blood Drive to include virus antibody testing on Sunday
Jul 3, 2020, 4:05 AM
(Getty Images/Win McNamee)
(Getty Images/Win McNamee)
PHOENIX — A Phoenix-based blood bank announced it will be testing donors’ blood for coronavirus antibodies as part of its Saving Arizona Blood Drive on Sunday.
Vitalant’s blood drive is scheduled for 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Tempe Center for the Arts, according to a press release.
The Food and Drug Administration-approved antibody test indicates if a donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to COVID-19, regardless of whether the individual has the virus at the time of the test or was ever symptomatic.
A positive test does not indicate immunity to the coronavirus, but those who test positive are able to donate convalescent plasma to help others recover from a COVID-19 infection.
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In addition to the free antibody test, blood donors will also receive one complimentary burger from Whataburger and a voucher for an Arizona Coyotes game.
Temperature checks will be administered at the entrance and donors are required to wear face masks.
Vitalant has strongly encouraged those interested in donating to schedule an appointment online or by calling (877) 258-4825 in order for the facility to ensure proper social distancing protocols.
