01/6 Should people with high blood sugar levels get their COVID vaccines?
During the second wave of coronavirus, diabetic patients who had been infected with the virus experienced a high spike in their blood sugar levels, not only posing great risk to their life but also increasing their chances of mucormycosis infections. Besides dealing with severe COVID symptoms, they faced a lot of challenges associated with their pre-existing diabetic condition. This is why, when it comes to getting their dose of COVID vaccine, there is still a looming fear and scepticism around the same.
02/6 Is there a link between coronavirus vaccine and diabetes?
As is known, COVID vaccines are a mimicry of the infection. Like the SARs-COV-2 virus, the vaccine also activates the immune response in the body, which leads to the side effects that one experiences after receiving the jab. However, unlike COVID-19 infections, the vaccines are in no way linked to a spike in blood sugar levels.
In an interview, AIIMS Bhopal director Dr. Sarman Singh had said that people with high blood sugar can take their COVID shot as there is no possible link between vaccines and blood sugar levels. While keeping blood sugar levels in check is recommended for overall wellness, Dr. Singh clarifies that the COVID vaccines do not intervene with blood sugar levels.
03/6 Can patients with high blood sugar levels get their COVID-19 vaccines?
Considering COVID vaccines have no associations with blood sugar levels in the body, experts recommend getting vaccinated as soon as possible. While the third wave is just around the corner, there should be no lax in taking precautions and getting the COVID vaccines.
04/6 Why should people with high blood sugar levels get their COVID-19 vaccines?
The second COVID wave left an irreparable dent on the country’s medical infrastructure and people’s lives. Given that a third COVID cave is just around the block, it is extremely important that everyone get their COVID vaccines in time.
During such critical times, the most vulnerable in the community should prioritize vaccination. While the young and the healthy people should also take their COVID shot, those with pre-existing comorbidities like diabetes, should get themselves vaccinated.
Coronavirus infections can take a heavy toll on people’s health, especially of those who are already laden with chronic illnesses, which is why, before the third wave arrives, book your slots.
05/6 What should be kept in mind?
If you are diabetic and have a sudden spike in blood sugar levels, certain things should be kept in mind. According to Dr. Singh, “Vaccine has no connection with sugar level. If the sugar level can be controlled, it is better to take such measures. But if your sugar level is very high, then it may happen that the pain at the injection site may remain longer.”
Additionally, people with high blood sugar levels might also be prone to infection from the vaccination site.
06/6 Are diabetic patients at a greater risk of infection?
Anyone and everyone can contract the virus. However, the severity may vary from person to person. When it comes to diabetic patients, they’re more likely to contract an infection. The Indian Council of Medical Research, in its guideline had also said that people with diabetes are not at a greater risk of getting COVID-19, but were in general at the risk of contracting an infection.
Apart from that, people with high blood sugar levels are also more prone to mucormycosis infections, which wreaked havoc during the second wave of COVID.
