North Collier Fire Control & Rescue District announces its partnership with the Southwest Florida Community Foundation to offer free Covid-19 antibody testing to the public on August 21-22, 2020.

This partnership is in response to urgent pleas from the NCH Community Blood Center plasma donations from individuals who have fully recovered from Covid-19.

Researchers believe that the antibody-rich blood plasma (convalescent plasma) from recovered Covid-19 patients may be helpful in treating those currently infected with the virus by boosting the body’s ability to fight the virus.  The Food and Drug Administration is currently evaluating this treatment and approval is expected soon. In the interim, doctors work through clinical trials or gain FDA approval to utilize plasma treatment for their most vulnerable Covid-19 patients.

EVENT DETAILS

WHEN:
Friday August 21, 2020 and Saturday August 22, 2020
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (or until tests run out)

WHERE:
North Collier Fire Control & Rescue District
Station 45
1885 Veterans Park Drive
Naples, FL 34109

REGISTRATION:
Prior registration suggested. Visit www.northcollierfire.com and click on the Antibody Test Registration link on the home page.

CANDIDATE PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:
Candidates will need to meet the following criteria to qualify for plasma donation:

• Have been diagnosed with Covid-19 (either by a laboratory, antibody test, or clinical diagnosis);
• Have been symptom free for at least 14 days;
• Are 18 years or older and weigh at least 110 pounds; and
• Have not been diagnosed with HIV, Hepatitis B or C.

TEST RESULTS: Available within 10 minutes

# OF AVAILABLE TEST KITS: 500

TESTS ADMINISTERED BY: North Collier Fire Rescue Personnel

NCH will have their blood mobiles on-site for those who do not qualify to donate plasma, but still wish to support the effort by donating blood.

REGISTER FOR TESTING NOW