Call for post-COVID blood plasma donors ahead of service coming to Derry next week

The Foyle MLA requested the facility be set up in Derry as part of the NHS Covid-19 Plasma Programme. He said: “NIBTS have confirmed that blood donation appointments will be carried out in the Guildhall on Monday November 30, Tuesday December 1 and Wednesday December 2. Previously, volunteers to the programme had to travel to Belfast to donate.

Those who have recovered from COVID-19 can register to donate their plasma to support clinical research trials, and will be contacted to arrange an appointment. Anyone who can’t make it to the sessions will be offered alternative sessions locally. Anyone who wishes to donate to the trial and is 28 days post-full recovery can do so at www.nibts.hscni.net/convalescent-plasma/“Unfortunately not everyone who registers their interest will be able to donate, as many are not yet 28 days post full recovery, which is one of the programme’s requirements. These people will be contacted again at a later date,” Mr Durkan said.

He added that he had been very keen to get the donation service for the north west.

“Given the high levels of positive Covid-19 cases in the Derry/ Strabane area I had argued that the Department of Health were doing themselves a real disservice by not facilitating sessions here.