The National Seasonal Influenza Immunisation Program for 2015 will start on 20 April 2015. If you are aged over 65 years, an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander over 15 years, pregnant or have diabetes you are eligible for a free flu vaccine via the federal government.

People with diabetes (type 1 and 2), even when well-managed, are at high risk of serious flu complications. The flu can make chronic health problems, like diabetes, worse. This is because diabetes may make the immune system less able to fight infections. In addition, illness can make it harder to control your blood glucose levels.

Diabetes NSW recommends getting the vaccine as the most effective way to avoid the potentially severe health risks of flu.

If you do get sick over winter it is important to follow sick day rules:

Sick days and type 1 diabetes fact sheet

Sick days and type 2 diabetes fact sheet

If you are prescribed antibiotics and use oral hypoglycaemic agents and/or insulin please remind your doctor of this as the use of some classes of antibiotics can significantly increase the risk of hypos.