How to protect yourself from coronavirus when you have type 2 diabetes

Managing a chronic illness is an already exhausting task. Add a global pandemic on top of that, and you might be feeling some anxious feelings about managing your diabetes type 2

There are lots of questions surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19), here are some basic answers from experts about what people with type 2 diabetes should know.

How does coronavirus spread?

The virus is thought to spread through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. Coronavirus mainly transmitted from person-to-person and between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly inhaled into the lungs.

COVID-19 and type 2 diabetes

Avoiding exposure is the best method of prevention according to the CDC.

Stay away from large groups of people who appear to be ill.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Do not wipe off the excess.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover your coughs and sneezes to be sure you’re not passing it along to anyone else.
Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, computer mouses, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water before disinfection.