Last updated: 03/30/2020
The coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is changing rapidly, and there’s a lot of information to keep up with. This resource page is designed to answer your questions and let you know what
Last updated: 03/30/2020
The coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is changing rapidly, and there’s a lot of information to keep up with. This resource page is designed to answer your questions and let you know what you can do to manage your health.
If you have any questions regarding your diabetes care plan, including medications, contact your doctor.
Q: I have diabetes, what does this mean for me?
A: If you have a chronic disease like diabetes, you are at a greater risk for getting seriously ill if you contract the coronavirus. For this reason, it’s extra important that you take steps to prevent getting sick, and that you’re prepared in case you do. This includes continuing to take all medications your doctor has prescribed and sticking to your diabetes care plan as closely as possible. To keep yourself healthy, wash your hands frequently, avoid people who are sick, and stay away from crowds, if possible. To prepare in the case you do get sick, have extra supplies and medication on hand to last you at least 2 weeks in case you need to stay home for a period of time. And if you develop any possible coronavirus symptoms, contact your doctor right away. The CDC has more information for people at higher risk, including those with diabetes.
If you have diabetes and you do become ill with any virus (including a cold or the flu), here are some strategies for managing sick days.
Q: Am I at higher risk for contracting the coronavirus because I have diabetes?
A: The research on coronavirus is still evolving. However, according to early information from China where COVID-19 first started, some people, including those with diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease, are more likely than others to get very sick from this virus. Because of this, experts are urging those with chronic conditions to take extra precautions to stay healthy and to contact their doctor should they have any concerns.
Q: I have type 1 diabetes, is there anything I need to do differently?
A: As a person with diabetes, including type 1 diabetes, you are more likely to get seriously ill if you do contract the coronavirus. For this reason, it’s even more important to take all of the normal steps to prevent the spread of germs, like washing your hands frequently and avoiding crowds and people who are ill. If you do get sick, you’ll need to monitor your blood sugar and ketones more than usual. Here are some other things you need to know about the coronavirus and type 1 diabetes.
Q: How do I manage my diabetes if I have the coronavirus?
A: When you are sick, you may have more difficulty managing your blood sugar. If you have the coronavirus, you are more at risk for developing serious complications. It’s important to work with your doctor on a plan that’s specific to you. Here are some general tips for managing diabetes when you are sick.
Q: I have high blood pressure, is there anything I need to do differently?
A: While the research on coronavirus is evolving, some doctors have suggested that people with high blood pressure may be at a higher risk for severe complications if they become ill. If you have high blood pressure, take the same precautions as any other high-risk individual to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands, regularly clean frequently touched surfaces in your home, avoid crowds, and keep a distance from people who are sick.
Q: As someone with a chronic condition, is there anything I should be doing differently?
A: As a person with a chronic condition, you are more likely to get seriously ill if you do contract the coronavirus. The CDC suggests that everyone take the same steps to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. If you have a chronic condition, it’s even more important that you follow standard recommendations, like keeping your hands off your face, staying away from those who are sick, regularly cleaning surfaces, and washing hands thoroughly to protect yourself and others. Some of these measures may seem basic, but they are key tools you can use to stop the spread of germs.
Q: What can I do to keep from getting sick?
A: Recommended safety precautions are the same as for the flu, such as frequent handwashing and covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Dispose of tissues in a lined wastebasket and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer afterward. The World Health Organization recommends avoiding contact like handshakes, and practicing social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet between yourself and anyone who is coughin