Flu and pneumonia shots can help manage diabetes
Each year, 10,000 to 30,000 people with diabetes in the United States die from complications (problems) from the flu and pneumonia. People with diabetes are also six times more likely to have a hospital stay because of these complications.
Getting flu (influenza) and pneumonia (pneumococcal) shots is an easy, safe way to protect yourself. Talk with your doctor about getting a flu shot as soon as it is available in the fall. You can talk with your doctor about getting a pneumonia shot anytime during the year.
The flu
Here are some facts about the flu and flu shots
- The flu is a respiratory (nose, throat, lungs) illness caused by influenza viruses (germs).
- The flu spreads easily from person to person through coughing and sneezing by an infected person.
- Flu symptoms include fever (usually high), extreme tiredness, headache, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, dry cough and muscle aches.
- You need to get a flu shot every year because the virus strain changes from year to year.
- You cannot get the flu from the flu shot.
- It takes about two weeks after the shot for the antibodies to develop in your body to give protection.
- People who live with or care for those who are at the greatest risk for serious complications from the flu should also get a flu shot as soon as they are available.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation of the lungs. It is a serious illness if you have diabetes because you are more likely to be sick longer, have to be in the hospital, or die.
For most people, one pneumonia (pneumococcal) shot has enough protection for a lifetime. Some people with a weakened immune system or a chronic (long-lasting) illness may need to get another shot 5 to 10 years after their first one. Your doctor can tell you when you need to get another one.
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Preventing diabetes complications Pneumonia: Good treatment in the hospital prevents future hospital stays Allina Medical Clinic - Diabetes Education Diabetes, endocrinology and metabolism specialists
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Allina Patient Education, Influenza, ic-ahc-13265
First published: 09/01/2001
Last updated: 10/02/2008
Reviewed by: Mary Frederick, RN, MS, CDE, diabetes program manager, Allina Medical Clinic
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