A large amount of medication sold in Luxembourg originates in China, where production is operating well under standard performance, due to to coronavirus quarantines and the ensuing slowdown.
Politicians in Luxembourg have shared their concerns that this could lead to critical shortages in Luxembourgish pharmacies if the coronavirus epidemic lasts for an extended period.
Pharmacies within the Grand Duchy have not yet noticed any shortage issues. There have been periods over the past three to five years, however, during which some medications have been unavailable in Luxembourg. These shortages were resolved by the use of generic and non-branded alternatives.
There has nevertheless been a marked increase in purchases, with customers/patients linking medicines and asking more questions across the counter.
Sales of medicines targeting fever, such as painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen, have risen, as have sales of products that boost immune systems, like Vitamin C.
It must be pointed out that, although a noticeable spike, according to pharmacists, this is not necessarily out of the ordinary for this time of year.
Businesses in Luxembourg have also introduced precautionary measures to limit spreading any potential infections.
Notably, businesses have move toward replacing physical meetings with phone conferences.
Employees are also urged to wash or disinfect their hands, or to hold tissues in front of their mouths and noses when coughing.
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