Coronavirus prevention: This is what every diabetic should know about COVID-19

If you are diabetic, you need to take a few extra precautions now because your risk from this viral infection is greater than the general population.

By: Jahnavi Sarma | | Updated: March 23, 2020 11:23 am

If you have diabetes, your body’s immunity is seriously compromised. It becomes all the more difficult for you to fight off infections. @Shutterstock

The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, has shaken the world. This pandemic has, so far (as of 23rd March) claimed the lives of more than 12,000 people across the world, according to the reports of the World Health Organization (WHO). Coronavirus has infected more than 2,94,110 people globally in just a little over 3 months. In India alone, this seemingly unstoppable virus has affected close to 400 people and the death toll is 7. However, there are success cases as well. The number of cured cases in India is above 20, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare. They have successfully overcome this infection and returned home from hospital.

DIABETES FACTS

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), by 2030, diabetes is going to be the 7th leading cause of death. What is is more alarming is, the next 10 years will witness 50 per cent of this increase. India is infamous as the diabetes capital of the world. According to the International Diabetes Foundation, the rate at which the number of diabetic patients is escalating in our country is alarming. A large cross section of our population suffers from what is known as prediabetes or borderline diabetes. The good news is, with proper lifestyle modifications at this stage many diabetes cases can be prevented. Eating right and staying active are the corner stones of blood sugar management.

CORONAVIRUS PRECAUTION FOR DIABETICS

If you have diabetes, your body’s immunity is seriously compromised. It becomes all the more difficult for you to fight off infections. So, if you have high blood sugar, then you must take extra precautions.

Take your medications on time

Whether it is oral medication or insulin injections, you need to get your daily dose of drugs that is recommended by your doctor. Get refills much before you run out of medicines. You can get a 2 months-supply to be safe. And be sure to take your medications on time and in the correct dosage. This will help you avoid complications, which can further increase your risk of coronavirus infection.

Maintain a diabetes diary

You need to try hard to maintain your sugar levels especially now. For this maintain a record of blood sugar readings. Have your doctor’s phone number handy and be in touch with your diabetes care team. Also maintain a list of your prescription medications and the doses as specified by your doctor. Note down everything in this diary.

Follow the precautionary guidelines diligently

Other than taking the above-mentioned measures, you need to follow the precautionary procedures that everyone else is also following. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 21 seconds. Do this frequently and be sure to work up a lather in your hands. If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer instead. Wear a protective mask if you go to the market or visit a sick person.

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Published : March 23, 2020 11:15 am | Updated:March 23, 2020 11:23 am

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