OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) welcomed Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and INTEGRIS Health CEO Timothy Pehrson recently at OBI’s headquarters at 901 N. Lincoln.

Pehrson joined Stitt in urging Oklahomans who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate convalescent plasma. Stitt also made his second convalescent plasma donation to help critically ill COVID-19 patients in the state.

“Donating convalescent plasma is one of the most impactful actions Oklahomans can take, after they’ve recovered from COVID-19,” Stitt said.

“The plasma we give will be given directly to patients in need to help our state fight this virus.”

Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) began collecting convalescent plasma in early April, as soon as it showed promise in treating patients suffering from severe symptoms of COVID-19. OBI is now distributing more than a thousand units per week to community hospitals.

“At INTEGRIS Health, we’ve seen directly the impact this treatment has on our patients,” Pehrson said. “Many in our community want to know how they can help our health care providers in the battle against COVID-19. One easy way to help is by donating convalescent plasma so this essential product is available for all patients who need it.”

The earlier in their care that seriously ill COVID-19 patients receive convalescent plasma, the more likely they will see a better outcome.  Convalescent plasma continues to be a critical treatment in the state’s response to COVID-19.

To donate convalescent plasma, donors must have had a positive COVID-19 test result, be symptom-free for 14 days and be at least 7 days past their last blood or plasma donation. A donation takes about 90 minutes, and donors are eligible as often as every seven days. Call  888-308-3924 or visit obi.org/plasma.