People with diabetes mellitus have a higher risk of certain infections and serious illnesses. These include influenza flu, COVID-19 and shingles, among others. The Standing Vaccination Commission of the Robert Koch Institute (STIKO) recommends that people with diabetes mellitus get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 annually. From the age of 50, a vaccination against herpes zoster is also recommended. diabetesDE – Deutsche Diabetes-Hilfe recommends making an appointment with the treating diabetological team or your family doctor’s practice now in the fall.
“The reason why people with a chronic underlying disease such as diabetes mellitus are more likely to become infected with influenza, COVID-19 or shingles does not just have to do with diabetes: many of them also live with obesity or cardiovascular diseases. These factors further increase the risk of infection and unfortunately also increase the risk of serious illness,” explains Professor Dr. med. Thomas Haak, board member of diabetesDE – German Diabetes Aid and chief physician at the Diabetes Center Mergentheim.
Flu and corona vaccinations reduce the risk of severe disease
The Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) recommends that people with diabetes mellitus get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 annually, as the influenza and corona viruses change. Professor Haak explains: “Even if this does not offer 100% protection, studies show that the vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization and death in diabetes patients.” They also reduce the likelihood of potentially associated heart problems or pneumonia.
The risk of shingles is also increased with diabetes
People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes have a 20 percent higher risk of developing shingles compared to people with a healthy metabolism. “Herpes zoster can be associated with severe nerve pain, a so-called post-herpetic neuropathy, and requires very lengthy treatment,” says Professor Haak. From the age of 50, people with diabetes should also get vaccinated against it: The shingles vaccination must be given twice with an interval of 2 to 6 months between the two appointments in order to build up protection. The STIKO recommends vaccination with a special inactivated vaccine. Conversely, “Anyone who suddenly develops shingles could have had previously undetected type 2 diabetes for a long time,” says Professor Haak. For people with chronic illnesses, the health insurance company covers the costs of immunizations.
