National Diabetes Month - Diabetes and the Flu

INFORMATION ABOUT THE FLU FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES AND THEIR CAREGIVERS

If you have diabetes, you are three times more likely than other people to end up in the hospital because of influenza (flu). The flu may also affect your blood glucose levels. People with diabetes (type 1 or type 2), even when well-managed, are at high risk of serious flu complications, often resulting in hospitalization and sometimes even death. Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. Protect yourself! Get more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are steps you can take to protect yourself from the flu:

• Get a flu shot! It’s the single best way to protect yourself against the flu. • Take prescription flu medicine when your health care provider prescribes it. • Learn how to take care of your diabetes when you're sick.  Get tips here. • Take everyday steps to protect your health, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching people who are sick. • Talk to your doctor about getting a pneumonia shot. Talk with your health care provider now about how to prevent or treat the flu. People infected with the flu can pass it on to others a day or two before any symptoms appear. That’s why it is important to make sure the people around you get a flu shot as well. STAY WELL IN FLU SEASON

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR DIABETES: TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF WHEN YOU ARE SICK