Medical Xpress recently reported that doctors are urging people with diabetes to get their flu vaccination, particularly this year, with predictions calling for a potentially bad flu season.
Many people with diabetes do not get a seasonal flu shot, according to the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE), because they either do not realize they are at risk or avoid the vaccination because they fear the shot will trigger an adverse reaction. The AADE said people with diabetes are more likely to develop serious flu-related health problems if they get the virus.
“Reducing risks is one of the AADE’s seven key self-care behaviors for managing diabetes, and getting the flu shot every fall is an excellent way of reducing the risk of getting sick,” certified diabetes educator Evan Sisson said in an AADE news release. “It’s widely available, it takes just a few minutes and it can make a real difference in your health.” Benefits of a seasonal flu shot for people with diabetes include:
- Flu, as well as other infections, can raise blood sugar levels and disrupt a healthy diet. A flu shot can help people with diabetes stay on track and manage their disease.
- People with diabetes are more likely to be hospitalized for flu-related complications such as pneumonia, and are also more likely to die from the flu.
- The flu can tax an immune system, which can lead to serious complications or death. A flu shot can help a weakened immune system ward off the flu.
The Great Plains QIN Team is working to offer education, resources and tools to promote vaccination best practices, guidelines and tools. We have convened a Learning and Action Network (LAN) to give providers, community organizations and patients the opportunity to share and learn. Ultimately, we intend to improve access to and quality of care through our efforts. Together, we play an important role in helping to educate all individuals about immunization recommendations. Join our Learning and Action Network today. All ‘improvers’ welcome.