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The number of Canadians living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes is expected to increase 32 per cent by 2028, bringing the total number of diagnosed cases from 3.5 million to 4.6 million in just 10 years. Many of the people living with diabetes in Canada will be seniors – in fact, Canada’s senior population is expected to grow by 68 per cent over the next 20 years.
With these numbers on the rise, it’s more important than ever that people are aware of the risks associated with the flu. Adults over the age of 65 are already a high-risk group for flu-related hospitalizations and deaths due to the decline of the immune system’s defence, which occurs naturally as we age, but chronic diseases like diabetes can complicate matters, further compounding these risks.
If you’re a senior living with diabetes, you know that monitoring your health is a full-time job, and a large part of this includes reducing your risk of contracting the seasonal flu.
In addition to living a healthy lifestyle, you can support your health by helping to protect yourself against the flu with an annual influenza vaccine. Considered an effective way to help prevent influenza, the flu shot is especially recommended for those living with chronic illnesses.
There’s even a high-dose vaccine specially formulated for adults over the age of 65. FLUZONE® High-Dose is 24 per cent more effective than the standard dose FLUZONE® vaccine.
It’s never too late to help protect against influenza. If you’re an adult over the age of 65 living with diabetes, ask your health-care provider for the FLUZONE® High-Dose flu shot, and help minimize your chances of getting the flu.
As with all vaccines, FLUZONE® High-Dose does not protect 100 per cent of people immunized, and allergic reactions can occur. It does not treat influenza or reduce the risk of hospitalization and/or complications. The most common side effects are pain at the injection site and muscle ache. Find out more at fluzone.ca.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the sponsor, and do not necessarily reflect those of Diabetes Canada.