DOH issues scam alert on COVID-19 survivors’ blood

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public against selling and buying convalescent plasma of people who have recovered from the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III issued the alert over the weekend amid reports of an increasing number of patients buying convalescent plasma from COVID-19 survivors, hospital personnel and fixers.

Duque said trading of blood plasma, including those from recovered COVID 19 patients, is not only illegal but also highly dangerous.

“Convalescent plasma is not for sale and should be donated voluntarily to COVID patients in need,” he said.

Duque said they received reports that some people are “intentionally infecting themselves with the virus so that after their recovery their plasma can be donated in exchange for money.”

Citing studies, Duque said transfusion of illegally bought convalescent plasma poses serious health risks to patients, including the possibility of acquiring blood-borne infections such as malaria, HIV and hepatitis.

“Those individuals do not only place their lives at risk, but also put their families and communities in danger,” he pointed out.

According to the DOH, the Philippine Blood Center and Philippine Red Cross are the only certified non-hospital based convalescent plasma collection facilities. The Philippine General Hospital and St. Luke’s Medical Center are authorized to collect blood plasma for use in its treatment protocol against COVID-19.

The DOH stressed that donation of convalescent plasma by COVID-19 survivors should be done voluntarily and should go through official process to ensure the safety of the recipient and donor.

The department urged hospital officials and local government units to look into the reported illegal trade of convalescent plasma outside authorized health facilities.

Overpriced face shields

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) yesterday warned traders against selling overpriced face shields amid the expected increase in demand for these protective gear.

Starting Aug. 15, commuters in public utility vehicles as well as airline passengers are required to use face shields on top of the mandatory wearing of face masks in a bid to curb the transmission of the virus.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra urged the public to report to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) individuals selling face shields at unconscionable prices.

“Those who have information against sellers of overpriced face shields may report to the DTI. The DOJ will prosecute violators in accordance with the law,” Guevarra said.

He asked the DTI to set a suggested retail price for face shields. – Evelyn Macairan