HELENA — The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations right now.
They announced today they've started testing their blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies.
According to the Red Cross the coronavirus is not a blood born pathogen, meaning it will not transfer from one person to another- through blood supply.
All blood that is donated to the American Red Cross goes through several screenings.
A spokesperson for the American Red Cross in Helena says,
It's important to note as they begin adding the antibody test screening, this test is not a diagnostic.
It will not tell you if you have the coronavirus.
If you do carry the antibodies, your plasma can be used to help those who test positive for the coronavirus.
American Red Cross representative Nona Keeler added they are accepting drop ins for blood donations, but they prefer if you make an appointment.
All employees and donors are required to wear masks, and social distancing will be in place.
It takes about one hour to donate and can even be quicker if you download the American Red Cross app.
