Scottsdale Quarter offers free antibody testing to blood donors

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Slots are all booked up, tests are running out, and people are being turned away after waiting in line for hours because of showing no symptoms of the coronavirus.

That's the outcry from the communities looking for a solution when trying to get tested for COVID-19.

Scottsdale Quarter is responding by providing support and partnering with blood organizations like Vitalant and the American Red Cross to host a blood drive.

Anyone who donates blood is offered a free COVID-19 antibody test.

"The COVID testing, it's not one of the reasons I did it, but it's a nice added benefit," Katherine Hunt said.

While the antibody test doesn't diagnose COVID-19 like a nasal or throat swab, the test does detect if you've been exposed or have developed antibodies to the virus.

"If they do come back with positive test results, they could potentially donate plasma to help those that are dealing with COVID-19 right now," said Christina Calhoun of Scottsdale Quarter.

Scottsdale Quarter says while the need for blood this summer is critical, they understand the need for more antibody testing is also important in stopping the spread of the virus.

Tips for keeping a strong immune system

Exercising and eating right are vital.

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

MAP: Worldwide interactive Coronavirus case data

MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code

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Coronavirus (COVID-19)
How it spreads, symptoms, prevention, treatment, FAQ
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

Arizona COVID-19 Response
Public resources, FAQ, webinars
https://www.azdhs.gov/coronavirus

On CoronavirusNOW.com, you'll find extensive coverage about COVID-19, including breaking news from around the country, exclusive interviews with health officials, and informative content from a variety of public health resources.

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Symptoms for coronavirus COVID-19 include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. These, of course, are similar to the common cold and flu.

Expect a common cold to start out with a sore or scratchy throat, cough, runny and/or stuffy nose. Flu symptoms are more intense and usually come on suddenly, and can include a high fever.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear more slowly. They usually include fever, a dry cough and noticeable shortness of breath, according to the World Health Organization. A minority of cases develop pneumonia, and the disease is especially worrisome for the elderly and those with other medical problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes or heart conditions.

Right now there's one big difference between flu and coronavirus: A vaccine exists to help prevent the flu and it's not too late to get it. It won't protect you from catching the coronavirus, but may put you in a better position to fight it.

To protect yourself, wash your hands well and often, keep them away from your face, and avoid crowds and standing close to people.

And if you do find yourself showing any of these flu or coronavirus symptoms - don't go straight to your doctor's office. That just risks making more people sick, officials urge. Call ahead, and ask if you need to be seen and where.