SANBS holds dinner to launch new product donation process
Blood group AB is in high demand, because AB plasma is universal; therefore it can be used by anyone, regardless of their blood group.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) held a dinner on Friday, 14 June in Silverstar’s Platinum Ballroom to launch a new product donation process called “Source Plasma”.
The event started at 6.30pm with Collections Manager, Papa Mmatli, addressing everyone present and explaining a few points of the new product donation process.
Plasma is the liquid part of your blood in which red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are suspended. A donor donates a bit of plasma when they make a normal whole blood donation, but you can also donate plasma only.
Papa said, “Although anyone who meets normal donation criteria can donate plasma, we specifically need blood group A and AB donors aged 18 to 65 years to consider donating this special source plasma.”
The SANBS confirmed that donating plasma is generally safe, however side effects can occur, but most of them are mild. They include dehydration, light-headedness, fatigue, discomfort or bruising at the site of needle insertion.
SANBS invited members of the community to donate plasma even if they have travelled to or come from an area where malaria is endemic, or are on anti-platelet medication such as aspirin and anti-inflammatories.
Papa also mentioned that blood group AB is in high demand, because AB plasma is universal; therefore it can be used by anyone, regardless of their blood group.
Members of the community who want to donate plasma can speak to their local blood donation centre or contact the toll free number (0800 119 031) to find out where to donate plasma today.
