Brigham Young University (BYU) in Idaho has issued a stern statement denouncing a deeply troubling trend among its students: deliberately seeking COVID-19 infection to harvest and sell plasma rich in antibodies.
Scientists worldwide are exploring convalescent plasma therapy as a potential treatment for COVID-19, which continues to affect communities globally. Recovered patients' plasma contains antibodies that may help reduce viral loads in severe cases, effectively transferring immunity from those who have recovered to those still battling the virus.
Such treatments require rigorous oversight by health authorities. In France, for instance, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP) is leading a clinical trial on this approach.
Recently, blood centers in Madison County, Idaho—a COVID-19 hotspot—began offering bonuses for antibody-rich plasma donations to boost supply.
This incentive sparked concerning behavior at BYU, the area's largest university. Local media KIVI-TV reported that students were intentionally exposing themselves to the virus to qualify for these payments.
“Students who are determined to intentionally expose themselves and others to the virus will be immediately suspended from the University and may be permanently expelled,” the university stated.
BYU emphasized the risks: “A reckless disregard for health and safety will inevitably lead to additional illness and loss of life in our community.” It warned that ongoing trends could force a shift to fully remote learning.
It's unclear how the university will identify intentional exposures versus accidental infections. This incident also highlights the financial pressures of high U.S. tuition costs, potentially pushing some students toward such desperate measures.
