Kerala is set to become the first state in the country to commence convalescent plasma therapy, which uses antibodies from the blood of cured patients, to treat critically ill COVID-19 cases on a trial basis.The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has given its nod to the state government for the first of its kind project.

LEARNING WITH TIMES

This is a form of convalescent plasma therapy. The technique is to use (blood) plasma of patients who have completely recovered from COVID-19 as it will be rich in antibodies.

Their plasma is collected and infused into COVID-19 patients who are critically ill and whose immune system cannot fight the virus.”Plasma Pheresis“– a technique of collecting the blood of patients and separating the plasma from blood cells.

Plasma

 The liquid part of the blood and lymphatic fluid, which makes up about half of the volume of blood. Plasma is devoid of cells and, unlike serum, has not clotted. Blood plasma contains antibodies and other proteins. It is taken from donors and made into medications for a variety of blood-related conditions.

Antibody

A protein,An immunoglobulin, made by plasma cells (a type of white blood cell) in response to an antigen (a substance that causes the body to make a specific immune response). Each antibody can bind to only one specific antigen. The purpose of this binding is to help destroy the antigen.

The production of antibodies is a major function of the immune system and is carried out by a type of white blood cell called a B cell (B lymphocyte). Antibodies can be triggered by and directed at foreign proteins, microorganisms, or toxins. Some antibodies are autoantibodies and home in against our own tissues.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus,are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practice respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow). The best way to prevent and slow down transmission, Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol based rub frequently and not touching your face.At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19.

What are the important steps you can do to prevent acquiring or spreading infection

1. Social distancing – Very important .
2.  Avoid contact with someone who shows symptoms of possible COVID-19 – anyone having a cold or cough or fever.
3. Avoid non-essential travel and use of public transport.
4. Avoid public places, crowds and large family get togethers. Keep in touch with friends and relatives using phone, internet, and social media.
5. Avoid routine visits to hospitals / Labs. for minor problems, contact hospital or HF clinic by phone or helpline number if possible. If you are regularly checking INR and adjusting blood thinning medicines, please contact the doctor over phone if possible and try and avoid a hospital as much as possible.                                                                                           Hand hygiene
6.  Avoid handshakes and touching face with hands
7. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently – do this for at least 20-30 seconds and systematically to clean all parts of the hand
8. Alcohol based hand-sanitisers are also useful.
9. Avoid touching possibly contaminated areas/objects – Public toilet doors, door handles etc.