The Claim:
An old news report about the Red Cross is recirculating as evidence for the anti-vaccine argument that COVID vaccines wipe out antibodies.
The Facts:
The Red Cross stopped collecting convalescent plasma in 2021, because hospitals had enough supply to meet patient needs, not because the COVID vaccine affected plasma quality. Convalescent plasma is a special part of blood taken from people who have recovered from COVID. It contains antibodies, which are proteins your immune system makes to fight infections like COVID. These antibodies can help sick patients recover by boosting their immune systems. The decision to stop collecting convalescent plasma was based on hospital need and has no connection to vaccines.
Receiving a COVID vaccine does not affect your ability to donate blood, platelets, or plasma. The Red Cross confirms that vaccinated individuals can still donate as long as they are feeling well. Vaccines also do not weaken your immune system or interfere with its ability to fight off COVID. The vaccines do not fight your own antibodies to COVID. Instead, they strengthen the immune system by providing your body with the tools it needs to recognize and fight the virus more effectively.
Disclaimer: Science is always evolving and our understanding of these topics may have evolved too since this was originally posted. Be sure to check out our most recent posts and browse the latest Just the Facts Topics for the latest.
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