Currently there are no proven treatment option for COVID-19. Human convalescent plasma is an option for COVID-19 treatment and could be available from people who have recovered and can donate plasma.
Experience from prior outbreaks with other coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV-1 shows that
convalescent plasma contains neutralizing antibodies to the relevant virus. In the case of
SARS-CoV-2, the anticipated mechanism of action by which passive antibody therapy would
mediate protection is viral neutralization. The only antibody type that is currently
available for immediate use is that found in human convalescent plasma. As more individuals
contract COVID-19 and recover, the number of potential donors will continue to increase. The
investigators seek to treat participants who are sick enough to warrant hospitalization prior
to the onset of overwhelming disease.
Biological: high-titer anti-Sars-CoV-2 plasma
Recipients will receive 1-2 units of ABO matched donor plasma at neutralization antibody titer >1:64 vs best supportive care
Other: oxygen therapy
oxygen therapy
Inclusion Criteria Donor:
- 18 years or older
- must have been hospitalized w/COVID-19 respiratory symptoms and confirmation via
COVID-19 SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing but are now PCR negative by 2 nasopharyngeal
testing
- females of child-bearing potential must have a negative serum pregnancy test
- subject and/or LAR willing to provide informed consent
- patient agrees to storage of specimens for future testing
Inclusion Criteria Recipient:
- 18 years or older
- must have been hospitalized w/COVID-19 respiratory symptoms within 3 to 7 days from
the beginning of illness
- subject and/or LAR willing to provide informed consent
- patient agrees to storage of specimens for future testing
Exclusion Criteria:
- 18 years or older
- receipt of pooled immunoglobulin in past 30 days
- contraindication to transfusion or history of prior reactions to transfusion blood
products
- females who are identified as donors must not be pregnant