I have to admit that I am fascinated by these false rumors. This particular one seems to have been circulating since May, but I can’t find any source beyond memes on Facebook and Twitter.
But I had to check. Here’s what the Red Cross’ web site says about the matter, today:
“The FDA allows people who have received a COVID-19 vaccine to donate dedicated COVID-19 convalescent plasma within six months of their infection of the virus, based on data that antibodies from natural infection can decline after six months however, the Red Cross has discontinued our convalescent plasma collection program.”
So, since the Red Cross is not presently accepting convalescent plasma donations from anyone, it’s technically true that they are not accepting donations from vaccinated donors. Perhaps that’s at the root of this particular rumor.
“the Red Cross has discontinued our convalescent plasma collection program.”
Convalescent plasma just did not work out as an effective treatment. Other treatments (like Regeneron antibody infusions) proved to be much better.
The disease can progress quickly, and there is no time to risk less effective treatment approaches. Go right for the antibody infusion, as soon as you can, if you get sick with COVID.