US FDA issues emergency authorisation for using convalescent plasma to treat coronavirus

Bengaluru: The US FDA has issued emergency authorisation for using convalescent plasma in the treatment of patients infected with coronavirus.

This technique has been in use in many countries, including India and has reportedly shown efficacy if certain conditions are used.

In a press conference, which had raised hopes around the world, he said that in this technique antibody-rich blood plasma from convalescent people would be used for treating patients and this is likely to reduce the deaths by 35%.

Replying to a query on death rate in USA, he said: “This is what I’ve been looking forward to doing for a long time, ”I’m pleased to make a truly historic announcement in our battle against the China virus that will save countless lives.”

He also appealed to people who have recovered from the disease to come forward and donate plasma.

Till date, more than 176,000 people have died of coronavirus in the USA.