NAPLES, Fla. — North Collier Fire Control and Rescue District Station 45, 1885 Veterans Park Dr., in Naples, is offering free antibody testing this Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11 and 12, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., or until tests run out.
In August and October, North Collier firefighters tested over 1,000 people. Over 200 units of whole blood were collected, including more than 80 units of plasma.
“It was an incredible success for our community blood bank and our community, and we are excited and grateful to be able to offer this testing again,” said North Collier Fire Deputy Chief Jorge Aguilera.
North Collier Fire Control and Rescue District is the only fire department in Florida that has entered into a public-private partnership to provide free antibody testing to the public. The success of the August and October events prompted fire officials and other community partners to take the steps necessary to offer this service again.
NCH Community Blood Center’s bloodmobile will be on-site to take donations as well as whole-blood convalescent plasma from qualified candidates.
Candidates will need to meet the following criteria to qualify for whole blood convalescent plasma donation:
· Meet regular blood donor eligibility criteria
· Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 (either by a laboratory, antibody test, or clinical diagnosis)
· Have been symptom-free for at least 14 days
· Minimum age 16 (with parent consent)
· Minimum weight: 110 pounds
· Have not been diagnosed with HIV, Hepatitis B or C.
Masks are required during testing and physical distancing will be encouraged wherever possible. You do not need to be a resident of Collier County to receive the antibody test.
Prior registration suggested.
Visit www.NorthCollierFire.com for more information.
