People with diabetes (type 1, type 2, or gestational), even when well-managed, are at high risk of serious flu complications, which can result in hospitalization and sometimes even death.
How can the flu complicate Diabetes?
- diabetes can make the immune system less able to fight infections.
- Flu can make it harder to control your blood sugar.
- Flu may raise your sugar levels.
- Flu can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections.
In recent seasons, about 30 percent of adult flu hospitalizations reported to the CDC have involved diabetes. On the other hand, flu vaccination has also been associated with reduced hospitalizations among people with diabetes.
Remember, the flu shot has a long, established safety record in people with diabetes. If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, call or walk into any of our Med First locations, and we will be sure to get you taken care of!