A voluntary plasma platform – 'Shohojoddha' – was launched today as a joint initiative of ICT Division, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and some other public and private organisations to facilitate the collection and distribution of plasma from patients who recovered from coronavirus.

State Minister for ICT Division Zunaid Ahmed Palak in an online programme launched the platform which is also facilitated by Access to Information programme (A2i), Innovation Lab and eGeneration.

"This will be a massive initiative and can save a huge number of lives," said Palak.

The network was designed to connect plasma donors and recipients in Bangladesh. To receive support from donors, plasma seekers can call +880906771166 or look up www.shohojoddha.com and www.facebook.com:BDshohojoddha for further information.

Donors can register to create a digital plasma bank in Bangladesh for the patients infected by coronavirus. The digital plasma network will enable infected patients to search and collect plasma in case a doctor prescribes convalescent plasma therapy.

The platform will get a list of Covid-19 survivors from the DGHS who will then be contacted based on requirements.

Dhaka Medical College (DMC), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), United Hospital, Universal Hospital, MIST, e-Cab, Praava Health, Pulse Health, OIwell, Grey, Bangladesh Super Market Owners' Association, Pathao, Shohoz, Ayat Foundation, BAGDOOM and Chaldal have become partners of this initiative.

Shameem Ahsan, chairman of eGeneration, said Shohojoddha is bringing technological innovation to the health sector and it will help a huge number of coronavirus patients in the country.