All the details: COVID-19, Diabetes, and You.

There is so much information flying around about COVID-19 right now that it can be hard to distill what is relevant for you.

How it affects you

While people with diabetes aren’t more likely to get COVID-19, the symptoms of the illness can be more serious. Folks with well-managed diabetes and relatively stable blood glucose numbers have about the same risks as the general population, the American Diabetes Association reports, but that doesn’t mean you should take any fewer precautions.

Viral infections in people with diabetes are more likely to lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) on top of any symptoms caused by the virus itself.

Some people with COVID-19 may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea according to the World Health Organization.

How to take care of you

One of the most important things is keeping routine, especially with food and medications like insulin. If you’re having trouble remembering, try setting phone reminders for yourself. JDRF has great information and reminders about how your medication routine can affect your blood glucose numbers, and how to stock up on your diabetes supplies during COVID-19.

Keeping the supplies on hand to deal with any sort of sickness is the best way to plan ahead. Plenty of hydrating drinks, diet-appropriate small snacks and meals, and medicine can help keep you feeling okay enough to fight off whatever it is and get you back in action in no time.

Taking care of yourself in this time also includes staying active, staying on top of your mental health, and staying entertained. Check out our blog: Tips and Resources for Surviving Social Distancing

The good news

Supplies of insulin and other diabetes supplies and medications show no sign of being affected by COVID-19. Pharmacies such as CVS are waiving early refill requirements and are offering mail-order prescriptions.

We are also here for you. Mina will be stepping out of her home in the app and joining us in the virtual world. In the upcoming weeks, Mina will share tips to support you during the outbreak — no app required. Just follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected.

Stay safe and stay well!

We are all in this together.

Your friend,

Mina