The University of the Philippines (UP) – Philippine General Hospital (PGH) will attempt to treat severely ill coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients by using the antibodies found in the blood of survivors.
In an interview with GMA News’ Arnold Clavio, UP-PGH spokesperson Jonas del Rosario is appealing for blood donations from COVID-19 survivors. He explained that survivors are those who initially tested positive for the disease, got better, then eventually tested negative.
“Ang tawag sa kanila survivors. Nagtataglay ang kanilang mga dugo ng antibodies,” he said. “Gagamitin natin para ibigay naman sa mga pasyente na severely ill sa COVID-19,” he said.
The Center for Disease Control has defined antibodies as protein found in the blood that is produced in response to bacteria or viruses invading the body. Antibodies serve as a protection from the disease by binding these organisms and destroying them.
Del Rosario said that the use of antibodies as treatment is not a standard of care, since it is still in the “experimental stage.” He added that the antibodies should come from healthy patients who had mild cases of COVID-19.
While they would be appreciative of all donors, Del Rosario said they would be very meticulous with the selection.
“Susuriin namin kung talagang naka-recover na sila. Mga two weeks pa sila pinagagalilng bago mag-qualify as donor,” he said.
For those interested in becoming donors, they can call the UP – PGH hotline at 155-200 and ask how to donate blood. (Czarina Nicole Ong Ki)