Should People with diabetes be Inoculated With the Influenza and Pneumonia Vaccines ?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that 6-month-old infants and the elderly should be inoculated with the influenza vaccine. Even well-controlled type 1 and type 2 diabetes have a high chance of catching the flu. Severe complications can lead to pneumonia and even death. A lowered immune system is the main cause of influenza, which leads to infections and elevated blood sugars. As a reminder, the influenza vaccine cannot fully prevent the flu, but it can significantly reduce the chance of acquiring the disease.

In addition, the pneumococcal vaccine should also be considered since influenza may be a major cause of pneumonia. The CDC recommends that the pneumococcal vaccine be included in diabetic control protocols. Similarly, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) also recommends that people with diabetes above the age of two should be inoculated with the pneumococcal vaccine. Contact your medical team for more details.

If you already have the flu, how can you prevent spreading the virus?

1. When coughing or sneezing, use tissues to cover your nose and mouth, then dispose the used tissues.
2. Wash your hands frequently with soap, especially after coughing or sneezing.
3. Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching your nose and mouth. Germs and viruses may be spread this way.
4. After visiting the doctor, stay at home and drink lots of water.

Reference: 1.Center for Disease Control and Prevention

2.American Diabetes Association