It sounds as if Norway is stricter than the US. The ban is not on all African countries, but just certain ones (which I can't remember off the top of my head). Oddly, you would be allowed to donate if you have not had (treated) syphilis or gonorrhea for at least one year.

I have just looked at some blood donation guidelines, and they do vary. I guess you would want to check with your local donation facility. I go through Puget Sound Blood Center, at the Southcenter facility.

I don't think they are as strict as American Red Cross.

East Hill