Diabetes can make it tough for your immune system to combat infections, taking a toll on your blood sugar levels and health. However, many diseases are preventable with the right vaccines. Vaccines, or immunizations, lower your chances of illness by helping your body protect itself. If you have health insurance, many insurance plans cover several vaccinations, so you can safeguard your health by staying up-to-date. If you’re looking for vaccine care without insurance, consider getting more information on an affordable health plan.
Learn more about the seven vaccines people living with diabetes should get so you can make the best choices for your health.
1. COVID-19
Pfizer, Moderna, Janssen, and Novavax are the four COVID-19 vaccinations that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently approves to prevent COVID-19 infections and serious illnesses related to the virus. For people with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, there’s a higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 that can lead to hospitalizations. This risk is lower when blood sugars are well-managed, so it’s important to stay on top of your diabetes care. The COVID-19 vaccine will likely be part of your yearly diabetes preventive care plan.
2. Hepatitis B
The Hepatitis B virus causes infection and inflammation of the liver. It is spread through blood or body fluids, but is highly preventable through vaccination. The CDC now recommends this vaccine for everyone, including infants and children. It is particularly important for people living with diabetes to be vaccinated because they have a higher risk of developing a chronic infection from the Hepatitis B virus which can result in long term liver problems. This immunization is broadly recommended for those under age 60 with diabetes. If you’re older than 60, talk with your medical provider about your need for the hepatitis B vaccine.
3. Human papillomaviurs (HPV)
HPV is a highly prevalent sexually transmitted infection that can cause cancer if it doesn’t go away on its own. Current guidance is to get two doses of the HPV vaccine before reaching 26 years of age, but it’s also effective for older individuals. Most sexually active people will come into contact with HPV at some point in life, so the vaccine can benefit everyone. The HPV vaccine is an important tool against a very preventable cancer (cervical cancer) in all people, and especially those living with diabetes.
4. Influenza
Influenza, or the flu, is a common and highly infectious illness that can result in serious complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and ear infections. For people with diabetes, the flu can be more serious and lead to a hospital stay. It is recommended that people with diabetes and other chronic conditions should get the inactive flu vaccine, rather than the live vaccine, each year.
5. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a bacteria that can cause life-threatening lung infections especially when diabetes is present. If you have diabetes and you’re between the ages of 19 and 64, the recommendation is for you to get a dose of the pneumonia vaccine and another dose after age 65.
6. Tetanis, diphteria, pertussis (TDap)
The TDap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, the culprits behind muscle stiffening, heart damage, and whooping cough. If you’ve never had a TDap vaccination, talk to your healthcare provider about getting one. After the first immunization, you can help protect yourself by receiving a TDap booster every 10 years.
7. Zoster/Shringrix
There’s only one way to prevent shingles and its complications, and that’s via the zoster vaccine. This virus attacks when the immune system is weakened, so for people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, it is important to take steps for prevention. The chance of getting shingles only grows as you age, so it’s a good idea for all adults 50 and over to get vaccinated. The good news is that the vaccine is 68-91% effective in preventing shingles.
Do you have concerns about getting vaccines?
9amHealth is here to answer any questions about your diabetes and staying safe from vaccine-preventable diseases. We’re here to support you by offering expert guidance for living your healthiest, happiest life. Visit our website to learn more.
