Hoxworth Blood Center & Miami University Announce First Convalescent Plasma Blood Drive

NEWS RELEASE: Cara Nicolas | Associate Director, Public Relations

CINCINNATI, OH (October 16, 2020) – Hoxworth Blood Center and Miami University have announced plans to host the first-ever convalescent plasma collection event in Ohio.

Miami University Fraternity & Sorority sponsoring Hoxworth event (Provided)

The convalescent plasma drive, sponsored by Miami’s Fraternity and Sorority Life, will be held at Miami University’s Armstrong Student Center on Wednesday, October 28.

Convalescent plasma is collected from recovered COVID-19 patients who have developed antibodies against the virus in their plasma. Transfusions of plasma may ameliorate the progression of the disease and even in some patients change significantly the outcome of the disease progression.

“Hoxworth Blood Center was one of the first organizations to begin collecting convalescent plasma in Ohio for the treatment of COVID-19,” said Alecia Lipton, director of public relations for Hoxworth Blood Center. “As this virus continues to spread, demand for and usage of convalescent plasma is expected to grow. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Miami University on this lifesaving initiative.”

“This initiative illustrates some of the best qualities of Miami University students, namely their generous and innovative spirits and deep interconnectedness. We are grateful for Hoxworth Blood Center’s engagement with Miami to meaningfully impact COVID-19 efforts,” said Steve Large, assistant vice president for health and wellness at Miami.

Individuals who have recovered from a documented infection of COVID-19 and have been symptom-free for at least 14 days are eligible to donate. The donation process will take approximately 90-minute

Hoxworth will be following social distancing guidelines and taking extra safety precautions to protect the health and wellness of both donors and staff, including changing gloves between donors and sanitizing surfaces regularly.  Masks are required per local guidelines. 

Appointments for convalescent plasma are required. To schedule your donation, call (513) 451-0910 or visit www.hoxworth.org/miamiu.