swine flue and diabetes

[BABSY]

If we have diabetes, do we have a highter risk of dying from swine flue if we get it?

[hpjrt]

There will be a vaccine available soon. But everyone should know that if you were born before 1957, you already have better immunities to the H1N1 virus. Variations of this virus circulated between 1918 and 1957 ... so your system has seen it before, and the recommendations seem to be to get the regular flu shot instead.

If you were born, however, after 1957, then you should consider getting the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available.

From what I understand, Diabetics can get more serious complications from flu viruses, particularly if said Diabetic's BG numbers are higher. That said, in all the information I've heard, officials don't identify Diabetics per se when giving the stats of those at a higher risk. That doesn't mean that Diabetics aren't at a higher risk ... just that I haven't heard them being mentioned specifically.

You should consult your doctor about that. I've never taken a flu shot ... but I wasn't diagnosed with Diabetes until this past May. My doctor may insist on my getting the flu shot this year.

So ... I don't know that Diabetics have a better chance of dying from H1N1 should they contract it ... but there's probably a good chance that Diabetics may have a more serious bout of it than non-Diabetic people.

Hope this helps.

[CookinsForMe]

According to my physician, diabetics are at higher risk for complications or death from H1N1. I take that with a grain of salt, though, like I take everything a physician says. I don't plan to get the H1N1 vaccine although my Dr is going to want me to. Ugh.

[txtapper]

I understand how you feel. And this ...........is one of the main reasons why I don't go to the doctor more often. they are just too willing to push drugs on me.

[amphigory]

Originally Posted by CookinsForMe

According to my physician, diabetics are at higher risk for complications or death from H1N1. I take that with a grain of salt, though, like I take everything a physician says. I don't plan to get the H1N1 vaccine although my Dr is going to want me to. Ugh.

As seems to be the case with every "complication" of diabetes, the risk of complications of swine flu is going to be directly proportionate to BG levels. In this case, it's easy to see why--the worst complication of the flu is secondary bacterial pneumonia, and bacteria feed on sugar. Less blood sugar means less for the bacteria to feed on. Slower growing bacteria means more time for your immune system to respond.

Personally, I'm going to get the H1N1 vaccine, but that's because I'm a single father of 4 kids, can't afford to be sick for a week, and being a diabetic gives me an excuse.

[txtapper]

Originally Posted by CookinsForMe

According to my physician, diabetics are at higher risk for complications or death from H1N1. I take that with a grain of salt, though, like I take everything a physician says. I don't plan to get the H1N1 vaccine although my Dr is going to want me to. Ugh.

I agree with you. I take everything most doctors say with a grain of salt. But people shouldnt' listen to me as I'm very cynical about doctors and have been for several years.