People with flu and diabetes | Influenza (influenza)

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Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the way your body transforms food into energy. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy). Over 122 million Americans live with diabetes (37.3 million) or prediabetics (96 million). People with diabetes (type 1, type 2, or pregnancy) are at a higher risk of developing serious influenza complications, even when properly managed. These complications can result in hospitalization and even death. Influenza-related complications include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections. Approximately 30% of adults hospitalized with the influenza reported to the CDC suffered from diabetes during the recent season. Acute diseases like influenza can make blood sugar levels even more difficult. The flu can raise blood sugar levels. For example, a decrease in appetite in cases of illness can lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should follow the guidelines for sick days if they become ill.

Vaccination is the best protection against influenza

Influenza vaccination is especially important for people with diabetes. This is because they are at a higher risk of developing serious flu complications. Influenza vaccination is also related Reduced hospitalizations among diabetic patients (79%).

Influenza vaccines for people with diabetes

• Injectable influenza vaccines (influenza shots) are recommended for use in people with diabetes and other specific health conditions. Influenza shots have long established safety records the study Supports the safety of influenza vaccines in diabetic patients.
• Diabetic patients should generally not administer a nasal spray influenza vaccine (i.e., attenuated influenza vaccine or LAIV). Your doctor or other medical professional can answer any questions you may have about the flu vaccine.

Pneumococcal vaccination is also important

• Having the flu increases your risk of contracting pneumococcal disease.
• Pneumococcal pneumonia is an example of serious influenza-related complications that can cause death.
• People with diabetes must be vaccinated. This vaccination will help protect you from pneumococcal pneumonia and other serious infections.
• You can get the pneumococcal vaccine recommended by your provider when you take the influenza vaccine.
• Pneumococcal vaccinations must be part of the diabetes management plan. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out which pneumococcal vaccines are recommended.

Other preventive behaviors for diabetic patients

In addition to taking the flu vaccine, people with diabetes should follow the daily preventive behavior of the CDC. These include avoiding sick people, covering coughs, and washing your hands frequently. It also allows for clean air and sanitation practices, such as cleaning surfaces that are frequently touched.

Specific health behaviors for diabetic patients

• Plan to maintain a sufficient supply of regular medication for chronic illnesses.
• Make sure you have the necessary medications on hand for at least 2 weeks.

If you experience flu symptoms, call your healthcare provider immediately. Antiviral drugs can treat influenza illnesses and prevent serious influenza complications. The CDC recommends rapid flu treatment for people with or suspected flu infections.

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Additional resources for people with diabetes

For medical professionals

Related links

Influenza Vaccine Finder