(Snippets from the frontline)
COVID-19/BLM: “Make a fist”
When you donate blood, part of the ritual is to “make a fist.” In case you haven’t heard, the American Red Cross now analyzes all donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Why is this important?
There are two ways and reasons to test for COVID-19. One is to take a swab sample from your nose or throat which determines if you have an acute infection. The other is to take blood and detect antibodies indicating prior exposure and confirming you might have immunity.
Because of the recent haphazard development of these tests, both can be faulty. A swab sample could be negative, yet you have the disease. A blood test can indicate you have antibodies, but if it is wrong, you are not immune. Making decisions based on incorrect testing is scary.
The American Red Cross uses the most accurate testing available. Hence, if you are seeking to reliably know if you have antibodies, donate blood.
Because there is always a blood shortage, by donating you can simultaneously save someones life, but also determine if you are immune to COVID-19.
So, after making a fist for BLM, consider making one for the American Red Cross.
Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D.
Sir, I respect you opinions and value the information in your “snippets”. I do!
However, you stated: “The American Red Cross uses the most accurate testing available.” If that is accurate, then why were they the original objectors to Gay men donating blood, and why do they object each time it comes up for review”? Surely Ryan White is a perfect example of why testing, better and more accurate testing was implemented.
My Church sponsors an annual Blood drive sponsored by UCLA because we will not support the discrimination and stereotyping fostered by the American Red Cross.