Donate blood and get free test for coronavirus antibodies in the Tri-Cities

The American Red Cross is testing blood donations for antibodies from exposure to the coronavirus for free for a limited time in the Tri-Cities area, it announced Monday.

Donors, including platelet and plasma donors, can look up their results within seven to 10 days via an app or the internet.

Antibody testing indicates if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to the coronavirus, regardless of whether they had symptoms.

The test being used has been authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but the Red Cross cautioned that the test result should not be considered definitive confirmation of infection or indicate immunity.

The Centers for Disease Control says that it is not clear yet if having antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 can protect someone from getting infected again or, if they do, how long the protection might last.

People should only donate blood if they are feeling healthy. The antibody test is not intended to diagnose current illness.

The Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations as hospitals are resuming surgeries and treatments requiring blood products that were delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Blood donations can be scheduled at the Richland Blood Donation Center, 447 Wellsian Way, which is open multiple days a week, including some days until 6:30 p.m.

Blood drives also are scheduled in West Richland noon to 5 p.m. June 29 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Keene Building, 1307 Watkins Way, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 30 at the Benton REA, 6095 W. Van Giesen St.

A drive is scheduled in Pasco 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Charter College, 5278 Outlet Drive.

Donors should check whether the antibody testing offer is still in effect by late in the month.

To schedule a donation, go to RedCrossBlood.org or call 800-733-2767.