Coronavirus (COVID-19)
By now, we are all familiar with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) virus. This ‘novel’ virus, (meaning it is a new virus that no one has any anti-bodies or immunity to help minimize the severity of how it might affect us), has more impact on those who may be older in age or already be living with a chronic disease (diabetes, cancer, heart disease, lung disease, etc.). The virus can cause people to develop mild to severe symptoms including a cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, very similar to the common cold and ‘flu’.
Be prepared for illness should you be exposed, similar to how you would manage a bout of the flu. Illness typically causes blood sugars to rise so if you take insulin, make necessary adjustments as required, and increase the frequency of checking your blood sugar if you feel unwell. Review your sick-day management strategies for how to manage your other medications if you become dehydrated or are unable to keep food and fluids down.
Take Steps to Be Prepared:
- have a 2-4 week supply of your necessary medications or insulin on hand
- make sure you have re-fills on prescriptions to avoid unnecessary trips to doctor
- have a supply of sugary and non-sugary fluids (juices, water, broth, electrolyte drinks, etc), glucose tablets on hand
- have glucagon & ketone strips (if Type 1) available
- have an adequate supply of blood sugar test strips for your meter
- have a 2 week supply of canned food, and other non-perishable items in the cupboard so you have the food you need to manage your blood sugar should you have to self-isolate or quarantine due to exposure or your own symptoms
Take Steps to Prevent Transmission:
- get vaccinated and maintain your vaccination status with boosters as recommended
- wear a mask when out in public
- frequent hand washing with soap & water
- maintain a distance of 6 feet or 2 meters with people other than your immediate family
- monitor and follow travel and social gatherings guidelines
- if you do have symptoms, complete a self-assessment and call your health care provider as directed for medical advice
Please visit the following links for more information:
Diabetes Canada - includes links to Health Canada’s advice regarding COVID-19 precautions
Diabetes Research Institute
If you are feeling sick:
- Please refer to our Sick Day Management page for further guidance
- Complete the self-assessment for further direction
The goal of current strategies in place by the government and healthcare are designed to contain the spread of the virus to ensure that those who may require hospitalization will have access to the care they need.