Historical documents show the first blood transfusions in Luxembourg were carried out in 1928. At the time, transfusions were carried out side by side and arm to arm.
By the late 1940s, the Grand Duchy numbered around 50 donors, all of whom were paid. Today, more than 13,000 people donate blood on a regular basis for free, as the practice has not been paid since 1950.
More recently, the Red Cross launched an appeal for blood donors at the end of March. In just two weeks, 1,786 people responded - 30% more than in 2019.
However, not all those registered are able to donate straight away, as they must undergo testing to ensure blood quality, and complete a questionnaire prior to donation.
Last year, just 933 donors were chosen from 1,356 who registered with the charity.
Fifty employees alternate shifts at the Red Cross headquarters on avenue Joseph II in Luxembourg City, in order to guarantee continuous service all year round - even in times of health crisis. The centre has never closed for more than three consecutive days, according to Dr. Andrée Heinricy, who has worked as a sample manager since 1999.
Blood donations are needed throughout the year, with regular donations encouraged as platelets, plasma and red cells can only be kept for a matter of days or weeks.
Luxembourg is well stocked, as the quantities were sufficient before, during and after confinement. This will prove to be particularly important in the period of de-confinement when the surgical operations will resume in hospitals.
New donors are always welcome, with all information found on the Red Cross website.
