A Ray of Hope: Convalescent Plasma with Dr. Rebecca Haley (S1 E7)

Bloodworks 101

English - April 09, 2020 07:00 - 10 minutes - 7 MB
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Previous Episode: Getting Real About Emergencies - Blood Services Executive VP Vicki Finson

Next Episode: Bloodworks Northwest Saved My Life - LinMara Bluebird & Dr. Rebecca Kruse Jarres (S1 E8)

As the Medical Director for Bloodworks Bio, Dr. N. Rebecca Haley’s newest project is one that could, if history is any guide, have a big impact in worldwide the fight against COVID-19. Over the past few months, the virus has disrupted public health systems the world over, leaving officials scrambling to respond.

But Dr. Haley is taking a pioneering path with a century-old technique, using antibody-rich “convalescent plasma” from donors who’ve recovered from COVID-19 to transfuse into patients currently sick with it, giving their immune systems a boost that could prove lifesaving. It’s worked with other pandemics, and Dr. Haley thinks it’s worth a try this time too. Listen to find out why.

Co-produced by Bill Harper.