Should people with Type 2 diabetes worry about coronavirus?

Should people with Type 2 diabetes worry about coronavirus?

People with type 2 diabetes are immunocompromised and should be aware of their increased risk for complications of coronavirus. 

According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes are not more likely to get COVID-19 but are more likely to experience complications from the illness.

“Anyone with type 2 diabetes is at a higher risk for complications of COVID-19,” says family physician and obesity specialist Danielle DonDiego, DO. 

Dr. Mahmood Kazemi, MD, Abbott’s medical director, says a viral infection may be more challenging to treat in a person with uncontrolled diabetes. 

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.

How to protect yourself or reduce your coronavirus risk when you have type 2 diabetes

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

• Stay away from large groups or 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.