2025 was a record year for blood donation at CERN, with three campaigns including one spanning two days. These saw a 25% increase in the number of donors and 36% in the number of donations and we warmly thank all donors for their support.

According to the Geneva blood barometer, blood stocks in the region remain low: CERN’s support as a key contributor (ranking 2nd as the region’s biggest blood donor after the Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève (HUG)) is essential to ensuring availability of blood stocks for those in need, when they need it most. Furthermore, as of 1 February 2026, the criteria for blood donation have changed and certain previous restrictions lifted, meaning that a wider population can donate. In particular, regarding stays in the United Kingdom between 1980 and 1996, the permanent exclusion is lifted and the individuals concerned can once again donate blood, The HUG explain more in this article (in French).

CERN will hold a its first blood donation session of 2026 over two days, on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 March, from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. in collaboration with the HUG in Building 29.

Before coming to the Building 29 donation point, please make sure that:

• you are in good health and have no symptoms such as fever, cough, a cold or breathing difficulties;
• You are eligible to give blood:
  • Complete the brief online pre-donation questionnaire (in French)
  • Please consult this information sheet and this questionnaire issued by the HUG.
  • Note that only the pre-donation conversation with the nurse or doctor on the day can confirm your eligibility).
  • If returning from travel abroad or arriving from another country, perform the travelcheck on the HUG website (in French)
  • If you have recently been vaccinated against the flu or COVID, ensure 48 hours have passed since receiving the vaccination.
  • Please bring proof of ID with you on the day of the donation.

Save yourself time: pre-book your appointment with OneDoc

The possibility of pre-booking your appointment via the OneDoc platform is made available on this link. Spontaneous donors will be able to come at their convenience without an appointment, mindful that there may be some waiting time on the day.

As a thank you, the HUG will be giving each donor a 10 CHF voucher, to be used on the day of the donation in Novae’s Restaurants 1 and 2 at CERN.

Next blood donation dates for 2026:

• Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 July
• Tuesday 17 November

We hope to see many of you at the donation point!