LifeShare offers free COVID-19 antibody tests

LifeShare Blood Center will temporarily be adding testing for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies to the panel of testing for all volunteer blood donors. Testing will begin on Monday, June 1 through Sunday, June 14.

According to a recent press release, LifeShare said the test can indicate whether someone has been exposed to COVID-19.

“Over the past several weeks, LifeShare has received countless inquiries about antibody testing for COVID-19. LifeShare is now able to provide this service as a way to encourage people to donate blood.”

“When the pandemic first moved into our region, we saw a tremendous outpouring of support from our blood donors,” says LifeShare Regional Director Elizabeth Cunningham. “Since then, we’ve seen a decline in the number of people giving blood while at the same time, hospitals are beginning to address their backlog of elective procedures.”

LifeShare said it has depleted more than 80% of its blood inventory since the beginning of May.

There are no special qualifications needed to be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. All donors will need to bring a photo ID and must provide a valid email address. Donors will receive their results within two weeks of donating.

“The antibody test is not intended for those who are currently experiencing coronavirus symptoms or who believe they may currently be infected. Blood donors should be individuals who are in good health. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their physician and not attempt to donate blood.”

If COVID-19 antibodies are detected, that donor would be eligible to donate COVID Convalescent Plasma (CCP) in the future. CCP is being used to treat the most critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Social distancing protocols are still in place at all blood drives, including additional space between donor beds, enhanced and more frequent cleanings, and the use of masks or face shields by all staff working with donors.

Upcoming blood drives in Cass County within the free testing period:

BLOOD DRIVES – JUNE 1ST – 6TH

Monday, June 1, 11 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. Dairy Queen Hwy 11 & Main Street, Hughes Springs, Texas

Monday, June 1, 4 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. Dairy Queen Hwy 1100 US-59 South, Linden, Texas

Friday, June 5, 11 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. Dairy Queen 701 US-59, Atlanta, Texas

Friday, June 5, 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Walmart 201 Loop US-59, Atlanta, Texas

Saturday, June 6, 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Amy’s Massage 110b West Hiram Street, Atlanta, Texas

Saturday, June 6, 4 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. Chicken Express 126 US-59, Atlanta, Texas

BLOOD DRIVES – JUNE 7TH – 13TH

Sunday, June 7, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Sonic 900 E. End Blvd South, Marshall, Texas

Sunday, June 7, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Walmart 1701 E. End Blvd., Marshall, Texas

Tuesday, June 9, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Sonic 1006 E. First Street, Hughes Springs, Texas

Tuesday, June 9, 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Sonic 301 US-59, Atlanta, Texas

Wednesday, June 10, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Walmart 201 Loop US-59, Atlanta, Texas