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Corona virus vaccination and diabetes

People with diabetes belong to the high-risk group for severe illness caused by the COVID-19 virus.

A person with diabetes should take all recommended measures to protect themselves from virus infections. High blood sugar reduces the body’s ability to defend itself and makes you more susceptible to various infections. People with diabetes belong to the high-risk group for severe illness caused by the COVID-19 virus.

If you contract corona virus infection, diabetes makes you susceptible to a more serious disease. An inflammatory disease increases the need for insulin as well as blood sugar. If you take tablets to treat the condition, you may need insulin to control your blood sugar. If you use insulin, you will usually need to increase the dose in accordance with your blood sugar level and the instructions in case of illness. A severe corona virus infection is treated with cortisone, which further increases the blood sugar level.

It is advisable for those with diabetes to get vaccinated against the coronavirus infection. Annual booster vaccinations against the coronavirus begin in October-November and can be taken alongside the influenza vaccine. For those with diabetes and close relatives living in the same household, the vaccination is free.

Updated 8.11.2023