The American Red Cross is now testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies, according to a news release from the organization.

The antibody test used by the Red Cross is authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and may indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to the coronavirus, regardless of whether they developed symptoms, the release said.

At the same time, there continues to be an urgent need for blood donations after hospital demand for blood products increased in recent weeks.

COVID-19 antibody test results will be available within 7-10 days following the donation in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.
...