"Even in a time of pandemic, hospitals still need blood to meet the needs of their patients," the federation stressed in a statement, calling for all citizens over 18 years old, who are over 50kg and healthy to donate.

"It is very important that people donate before going on their well-deserved holidays, as even in the summer hospitals need blood," said Alberto Mota, chairman of FEPODABES, in a statement.

To meet potential donors, FEPODABES is promoting a summer collection campaign until 23 August in several locations around the country, such as Foz do Arelho (Caldas da Rainha), Costa da Caparica (Almada), Almeirim (Santarém), Vialonga (V.F.Xira), Peniche, Rio Maior, Moscavide and Portela (Loures).

This appeal to mobilise citizens also aims to "remind that giving blood is a benevolent gesture that can save lives", he adds.

According to information available on the dodor.pt website, blood groups 0- and B- have a reserve for up to four days, A- for four to seven days, AB- and O+ for seven to 10 days and A+, B+ and AB+ for more than 10 days.

"About 1,000 units of blood are needed every day in Portuguese hospitals and so every day we need donors," said the IPST president at the time.

IPST data indicate that last year there were about 27,000 new donors, 2 percent more than in 2019.