Why Diabetic People are at high risk of H3N2 Virus?

Posted on: May 26, 2023 | | Written by:

Why Diabetic People are at high risk of H3N2 Virus?

Published on May 25, 2023. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

Imagine you are in a crowded hospital waiting for your appointment with your doctor for a regular check-up for diabetes. As you overhear some of the conversations, you start feeling a sense of unease. You have just learned about the H3N2 influenza virus, notorious for its ability to wreak havoc on those with underlying health conditions, including diabetes, and its recent circulation in the community. Your fear mirrors the concerns of countless individuals with diabetes worldwide, who face an increased risk when confronted with infectious diseases. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the heightened vulnerability of diabetic individuals to the H3N2 virus and ways of prevention.,/p>

What is the H3N2 virus variant?

H3N2 is a type of seasonal flu causing respiratory illness in people. A subtype of the influenza A virus, it is highly infectious and can spread rapidly, particularly during the flu season. This variant has the potential to mutate and give rise to new strains. Although it is not as severe and contagious as COVID-19, H3N2 can still be dangerous and cause serious complications in children, older people, pregnant women, and people with comorbidities such as diabetes, asthma, heart problems, etc. Getting vaccinated, following hand and respiratory hygiene, and wearing masks are some ways to limit the transmission of the virus.

Signs & Symptoms

The typical signs and symptoms of H3N2 are:

• Fever

• Cough

• Chills

• Difficulty in breathing

• Sore throat

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Headache

• Body pain

• Diarrhoea

• Fatigue

• Sneezing and runny nose

• Abdominal pain

If you experience these symptoms mentioned above, you must consult your physician immediately.

H3N2 Effect on Diabetics: How & Why People with Diabetes are at a higher risk of H3N2?

Diabetes weakens the immune system of people, making them increasingly vulnerable to illnesses like the flu. Due to low immunity, diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nerves, thereby affecting the respiratory system’s ability to fight infections, especially if the blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled. Hence, people with diabetes are at a higher risk of contracting the H3N2 virus and suffer from severe complications like bronchitis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure. As per studies, diabetics are at increased risk of getting hospitalised due to complications from the flu as compared to non-diabetics. So, it is crucial for people with diabetes to take extra precautions and preventive measures like practising good hygiene and getting vaccinated to stay safe from H3N2.

Prevention Tips

1. High or uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lower immunity and make it difficult to fight infections; hence it’s extremely important for diabetics to manage blood sugar levels with medications, a healthy diet, regular exercise, etc. This will help minimise the risk of infection and reduce the severity of the disease. Before touching your face or eating, always remember to wash your hands.

2. Wear a mask when you are going out. Avoid crowded places.

3. Avoid coming in close contact with people exposed to the H3N2 virus or who have been sick.

4. Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.

5. If you experience any signs and symptoms, staying at home is wiser to prevent the transmission of the H3N2 virus. Make sure you rest and stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. Avoid sugary drinks as they can increase your blood sugar levels.

6. Consume a healthy diet packed with minerals, vitamins, and proteins.

Conclusion

With the H3N2 virus in the air, it is important for everyone, particularly those with diabetes, to take all precautions and reduce the risk of infection. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugars regularly; the H3N2 effect on diabetes can be severe if the blood sugar levels are uncontrolled. If diabetes is not managed properly, it can cause complications, as mentioned above. While practising good hygiene, getting vaccinated, and following other precautionary measures are necessary, securing yourself and your loved ones with health insurance for financial protection during medical emergencies is equally essential. In addition to the primary healthcare plan, diabetics should also have diabetes insurance for extra protection.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

Recovering from the effects of COVID? Here’s what you can and can’t do

Heatwaves and Their Adverse Effects on the Body

Top Myths about COVID-19 Vaccine for Kids Debunked

7 effective yoga asanas that will help with diabetes

Diabesity : How obesity is related to diabetes