August 09, 2023 Tips for staying healthy this fall

Content supported by an educational grant from Sanofi

Immunization is part of staying healthy, especially when you have diabetes or live with someone who does. Diabetes Canada spoke to Dr. Jeffrey Habert, a family physician in Toronto about what you should know before the fall arrives.

What are strategies people with diabetes need to know to keep healthy?

People with diabetes frequently have other chronic illness, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, hypertension (also known as high blood pressure) and kidney disease, that put them at high risk for influenza-related complications or hospitalization.

1. We know the influenza (flu) vaccination significantly decreases the risk of contracting the flu and complications from it.

Diabetes Canada and The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommend that all individuals with diabetes get the flu shot. NACI also recommends the same for your close contacts. The flu shot is the most effective way to prevent the flu and helps protect those who are vulnerable to serious illness.

2. If you’re visiting your healthcare provider in the fall, this is a good time to also get immunized for pneumonia and COVID-19.

How can people without a family doctor get their shots?

Access to immunization without a family doctor can vary depending on the province you live in. Here are some options you can try:

1. Public health clinics offer immunization services to the general population, regardless of whether they have a family doctor. These clinics are usually run by the government or local health authorities and may provide vaccines for children, adults and seniors.

2. Local pharmacies authorized to administer certain vaccines, such as the flu or travel vaccines. People without a family doctor can often receive these vaccines for free without a prescription.

3. Local community health centres provide a range of health services to residents in a particular area. They may offer immunization services to those who don't have a family doctor or can't access one easily.

4. Workplace or school programs run by some employers and educational institutions that organize vaccination programs for their employees or students. These programs may offer specific vaccines required for the workplace or school environment.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are serious conditions but there are many things you can do to stay well. August is Immunization Awareness Month. Get immunized and visit Immunize Canada to learn more.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the expert, and do not necessarily reflect those of Diabetes Canada.