October 25, 2002
While the fall season in Hawaii does not bring colorful leaves to
our tropical trees, it does bring the start of flu season. In fact,
people in Hawaii often begin to suffer flu illness sooner than people
elsewhere in the country because Hawaii’s flu season actually
begins earlier.
Most people have experienced the flu at least once in their lives
and can recall the coughing, aching, and fever that sometimes linger
for days. What many people do not realize, however, is that the flu can
lead to much more serious complications, even death. Persons any age
with diabetes, not just older persons, are particularly at risk for
these complications and must protect themselves by getting a flu shot
every year.
People with Diabetes Should Take Extra
Caution. Persons who have diabetes are at high-risk for
complications from the flu. People with diabetes suffer longer flu
illness, are 3 times more likely to die from the flu, and are 6 times
more likely to be hospitalized from the flu. The most striking fact,
though, is that during the flu season, deaths among people with
diabetes increase by up to 15%.
Why is this the case? Diabetes is a serious disease that alters how
the body deals with other diseases. But there is something that can be
done to help prevent these serious problems and tough statistics. THE
FLU SHOT!
Why Should I Get the Flu Shot? The
flu shot offers protection 10 to 14 days after receiving the shot, and
there is no way to get the flu from the flu shot! In an average flu
season, 20,000 Americans die and 110,000 are hospitalized because of
complications from influenza illness. People with diabetes represent a
large number of these cases, but by getting the flu shot, they can
lessen their chances of serious illness or death.
Where and When do I Get the Flu
Shot? The best time to get the flu shot is October and November,
but it is never too late. The flu shot is given at physicians’
offices, at many health fairs, and at special "flu shot clinics" held
at pharmacies and stores during this time of year. For people with
Medicare Part B, the shot is free. Cost of the flu shot is often
covered under health plans - check to see if yours does and use this
benefit. It could mean the difference between life and death.
For information about a clinic in your neighborhood, call Aloha
United Way at 211 - it's a free call from any place in Hawaii. Or, for
information on diabetes, call the Hawaii State Diabetes Control Program
at 808-692-7462.
# # #
|