Stay ahead of respiratory virus season: Critical tips for people with diabetes
Respiratory virus season presents added risks for everyone, but individuals with diabetes face significantly greater risks. Diabetes weakens the immune system and disrupts blood sugar regulation, making it harder to fight infections.
“People with diabetes are at higher risk of more frequent or severe infections, including common respiratory viruses like influenza, COVID-19, and RSV,” says Alex Trecartin, MD, a family medicine physician with Aspirus Health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes—even those whose diabetes is well-managed—are three times more likely to die and six times more likely to be hospitalized due to flurelated complications than those without diabetes.
Dr. Trecartin explains that infections can complicate diabetes management. “Our body’s metabolism changes during illness, and blood glucose control can be harder to maintain,” he explains. “It’s important to monitor blood sugar levels more often and communicate with your health care provider about adjustments to your treatment plan.”
To protect themselves during respiratory season, Aspirus Health encourages individuals with diabetes to take the following proactive steps:
• Stay Current on Vaccines: Immunizations for flu, COVID-19, and RSV significantly lower the risk of infection and reduce the severity of symptoms if illness occurs.
• Maintain Good Glucose Control: Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range helps reduce the likelihood of complications from infections.
• Practice Good Hygiene: “Washing your hands frequently is perhaps the most important thing you can do to lower your risk of respiratory infection,” advises Dr. Trecartin.
Taking these precautions will help individuals with diabetes reduce their risks and navigate respiratory virus season more confidently.
