COVID-19 convalescent plasma (South African National Blood Service)

COVID-19 convalescent plasma developed by the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is a biologic therapy derived from the plasma of individuals who have recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. This therapy aims to provide passive immunity by transferring neutralizing antibodies that target the SARS-CoV-2 virus, specifically the spike protein, to inhibit viral entry and replication in the recipient. It was evaluated in the PROTECT-Patient trial, a Phase 3, randomized, double-blinded study in South Africa involving hospitalized adults with moderate to severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Although the trial demonstrated the safety and feasibility of administering 200-250 mL transfusions, it did not show a significant clinical benefit over standard of care plus placebo, aligning with broader global findings regarding the routine use of convalescent plasma in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Other names

COVID-19 convalescent plasmaCOVID19 convalescent plasmaCOVID 19 convalescent plasmaCCPPROTECT-Patient convalescent plasma