Diabetes: Don’t risk getting the flu

Besides taking my mom for a health checkup during Mother’s Day, today we brought my grandmother to see the doctor for her appointment. The doctor ordered a flu vaccine because my grandmother is in a high-risk age group and also has diabetes.

People with diabetes are more likely to get influenza than the general population because blood sugar interferes with white blood cell function, reducing the ability to destroy pathogens. This weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of severe infection and possible complications, especially during flu season. It has been found that people with diabetes have higher mortality rates and higher hospitalization rates than the general population due to severe influenza complications.

Basic health care to prevent influenza, in addition to vaccination, includes washing hands regularly, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of disease, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet from all five food groups.

Older adults should receive the influenza vaccine every year. After vaccination, side effects may occur, such as pain, swelling, redness, or soreness at the injection site; some people may also have a fever or feel fatigued. Side effects can be managed by applying a warm compress to the swollen area or taking pain relievers/fever reducers. However, if symptoms are severe or do not improve within 2–3 days, you should consult a doctor again.

This year, if anyone still hasn’t taken their parents to get vaccinated, don’t wait—because health can’t wait.

Piti would like to send encouragement to all devoted children.

Article by
Pharmacist Rungmit Choonhengphan (female)
Co-founder of Piti
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