Delco Hosting Blood Drive To Restock Supplies Amid Coronavirus

MEDIA, PA — A community blood drive to help restock supplies amid the coronavirus pandemic is being held in Delaware County Tuesday.

Delco is hosting a blood drive from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Media Municipal Building, 301 N. Jackson Street in Media.

There are two main components of donated blood. There is a solid component of the blood which includes red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, which help the blood clot. Plasma is the liquid component of blood, comprised of water, salt and protein and is critically needed since donations of plasma have declined during the COVID-19 pandemic. Plasma serves various functions. It can increase a patient’s blood volume and help with clotting. Plasma is used to treat various conditions including trauma, burns and hemophilia.

Some people who have recovered from COVID-19 have antibodies in their plasma that can attack the coronavirus, and they are being asked to donate plasma.

The plasma is being studied and utilized as a treatment for patients who are seriously ill with COVID-19.

The Food and Drug Administration has asked the American Red Cross to help identify prospective donors and manage the distribution of the plasma to hospitals treating patients in need.

Delaware County is encouraging residents to donate blood to ensure the blood supply remains adequate and stable during this pandemic. The American Red Cross urgently needs blood and platelet donors to maintain a sufficient blood supply.

Residents can sign up to donate blood during the Community Blood Drive on May 5. Donors must register and choose a time to donate.

To sign-up, visit the Red Cross website here and enter the sponsor code "Media." Donors can also call 1-800-RED CROSS to register.

Recovered Covid-19 patients can learn more about plasma donation online here.