KANSAS
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT
BILL GRAVES, GOVERNOR
Gary R. Mitchell, Secretary
For Immediate Release
Contact: Don Brown
Flu Shots Especially Important for People With Diabetes
Getting an influenza shot is good practice for everyone, but a flu shot can actually be a lifesaver for people with diabetes. A properly administered influenza vaccine will substantially reduce the risk of death from complications of flu for people with diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
"People with diabetes face an increased risk of death during flu epidemics," said Andrew Winters, Diabetes Coordinator for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. "National studies show people with diabetes are three times more likely to die from complications of flu and pneumonia."
15.7 million Americans have diabetes, including an estimated 126,000 Kansans. These people face a substantially increased risk of death from influenza, yet more than half of all people with diabetes do not get an annual flu shot.
"People with diabetes may be unaware that their disease can make their immune system more vulnerable to severe cases or even death from the flu,"said Dr. Frank Vinicor, director of the Division of Diabetes Translation at CDC. "A flu shot is an easy, safe, preventive measure that people with diabetes should take to protect themselves from the risks associated with the flu."
KDHE recommends flu shots be given prior to the flu season, which generally runs November through March. Flu shots must be renewed each year, and it is wise to consult with a doctor prior to your first flu vaccination.