SAFFORD —The American Red Cross announced it is testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies.
Donations will be tested using samples pulled at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where they will also undergo routine infectious disease testing. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity.
COVID-19 antibody test results will be available within seven to 10 days in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. The test has been authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The Gila Valley Ministerial Association will sponsor an emergency blood drive Wednesday and Thursday, June 17-18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, at the GFWC Womaen’s Club in Safford.
Donations are by appointment only. Go to redcrossblood.org to schedule a donation time.