Diabetes weakens the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to infection, including influenza. Patients with diabetes are at high risk for complications, hospitalizations, and death from influenza based on epidemiological studies. [38]
However, diabetics who get an annual flu vaccination have a 56% lower risk of developing complications, while their chances of being hospitalized declines 54%. Flu-related deaths decline 58%. [13]
Remember to recommend influenza vaccination for your patients with diabetes. And remember to get vaccinated yourself so you don’t spread the virus to others.
