COVID-19 and Diabetes

COVID-19 and Diabetes

COVID-19 remains a global health emergency, with over 750 million confirmed cases and 7 million deaths caused by the virus. People living with diabetes can be more vulnerable to the severe effects of COVID-19.

A weakened immune system and a virus that thrives in high blood glucose environments are two reasons for this vulnerability. Studies have shown that poor blood glucose in people living with diabetes affected by COVID-19 can result in:

• 1. 40% increased risk of hospitalisation
• 2. Two to three times greater risk of severe illness, including death

Nevertheless, around 98% of people infected to date have survived.

COVID-19 spreads through air droplets and can survive for several hours to a few days in various conditions. The virus transmits through close contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, followed by touching the mouth or nose.

COVID-19 vaccination is widely available and can considerably reduce the risk of catching the virus. IDF advises people living with diabetes to get vaccinated.