I Feel Sick After Getting The Flu Shot
Importantly, getting a flu shot cannot cause flu illness. Flu shots consist of inactivated flu virus or, in recombinant vaccines with no virus at all. Some people do experience mild side effects after getting a flu shot including soreness where the shot was given, low-grade fever, headaches, and achiness. These side effects are minor and brief considering the severity of getting sick with the flu for someone with diabetes.
While flu shots are an effective step an individual can take to protect themselves, vaccines are most effective when everyone gets them. By getting vaccinated for the flu, you are protecting not only yourself but everyone you come in contact with. Have a safe and healthy flu season!
Are The Vaccines Safe
We know that some people may still be worried about how quickly the coronavirus vaccines were developed. But this was possible because scientists, governments and industry all around the world focussed their attention on this one shared goal.
All the vaccine trials included the usual number of participants and no stages of development and testing were rushed or skipped. The joint worldwide effort to find a vaccine allowed for funding and approval processes to be fast-tracked, and manufacturing to begin early. This, alongside using existing technologies in the vaccine development, is why they were developed more quickly than usual.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency will also continue to monitor the vaccines over time and make sure vaccinations follow a very high standard. And its also useful to know that the vaccines have been tested in men and women of different ages and ethnicities, with a range of health conditions including diabetes.
Theres no evidence to suggest that the vaccine will work less well in people with diabetes.
Not everyone taking the vaccine will have side effects. If you do have any, they are usually very mild. They normally wont last longer than around 48 hours.
The common side effects are:
- A sore arm where you had your vaccine
- Feeling tired
- Aches
- Feeling sick.
If you dont feel well, its really important that you stick to anysick day rulesrecommended by your diabetes team.
Pneumococcal Diseases & Pneumonia Shots
There is a category of diseases called pneumococcal disease, of which pneumonia is one of the most dangerousthe other most dangerous being meningitis. People with diabetes are about three times more likely to die with flu and pneumococcal diseases, yet most dont get a simple, safe pneumonia shot.
Symptoms of pneumonia include:
Cough that can produce mucus that is gray, yellow, or streaked with blood Chest pain
Also Check: Flu Shot Kaiser Redwood City
Should You Get A Flu Shot
In general, every person with diabetes needs a flu shot each year. Talk with your doctor about having a flu shot. Flu shots do not give 100% protection, but they do make it less likely for you to catch the flu for about six months.
For extra safety, it’s a good idea for the people you live with or spend a lot of time with to get a flu shot, too. You are less likely to get the flu if the people around you don’t have it.
The best time to get your flu shot is beginning in September. The shot takes about two weeks to take effect.
If youre sick , ask if you should wait until you are healthy again before having your flu shot. And don’t get a flu shot if you are allergic to eggs.
You are advised to continue to take the general precautions of preventing seasonal flu and other communicable illnesses and diseases:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash. If you dont have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hand.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Rare Flu Shot Complications
Another extremely rare potential complication of a flu shot is Guillain-Barré syndrome. This is a disease characterized by nerve damage, weakness, and fever that developed in some cases in association with the swine flu vaccine in 1976. Only one research study has shown any association of Guillain-Barré syndrome with subsequent flu shots developed since 1976. That study showed that only one person out of 1 million vaccinated persons may be at risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome associated with the vaccine.
It’s recommended that everyone over 6 months of age receive the flu vaccine. The risks of complications from the flu are more serious than any potential risks of the flu shot. Only those who have had a previous severe reaction to the shot should consult a doctor before receiving the vaccine.
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Read Also: When Does The Keto Flu Hit
Diabetes + Covid Vaccines: What You Need To Know
Editors Note: We have a simple goal: tap into the power of the global diabetes community to save lives. Visit coronavirusdiabetes.org to learn more about what you can do as a person with diabetes to keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19 until were all safe.
For information on how to get your vaccineFor more in-depth information on COVID vaccines for kids with diabetes
COVID-19 vaccines are here. If you have diabetes and/or other underlying health concerns, you may have questions about timing, safety, and what to expect.
Its important to remember that having well-controlled diabetes alone does not seem to put anyone more at risk for contracting the novel coronavirus, but other factors like older age, high-exposure employment, consistently elevated blood glucose levels, or other non-diabetes related health factors like obesity and hypertension may increase your risk of infection.
We also know that diabetes care itself is made far more complicated after contracting COVID-19 and protecting anyone with diabetes from getting COVID-19 is our ultimate goal. Thats why we encourage everyone with diabetes to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
What Medications Are Similar
Other rapid-acting insulins that begin working in 15 minutes and last for two to four hours include Admelog and Humalog , and Fiasp and NovoLog .
Short-acting insulins that begin to work within 30 minutes and last for three to six hours include Humulin R and Novolin R .
These are not other drugs recommended to take with Apidra. Discuss any questions or concerns about these medications with a pharmacist or healthcare provider.
You May Like: Flu Vaccine Vs Pneumococcal Vaccine
Does The Flu Shot Affect Blood Sugar
While most physicians will tell you that your blood glucose will not be impacted by a flu shot, anecdotally there are reports of increased blood sugar after a flu shot. Does this mean you shouldnt get a flu shot? Absolutely not. Your risk from contracting the flu is far greater than a brief period of elevated blood glucose.
The Flu Shot
Doctors say that diabetics should not take the nasal form of the flu vaccination, only the injection. The vaccine is made of killed flu viruses, and cannot give you the flu.
The vaccine is between 70% and 90% effective and takes about two weeks to provide full immunity. It is generally available sometime during September, and physicians urge diabetics to get it as early as possible so they have complete immunity when the season begins.
The Flu Shot Effect on Blood Sugar
Some people report higher-than-normal blood glucose readings immediately after their vaccination and for a week or two. Generally, these levels are not high enough to signify an emergency situation, i.e. hyperglycemia and all of its ramifications.
There is no real explanation for this blood sugar increase, other than a possible small bump to the metabolism as the body processes the vaccine. Being aware of the possibility, and adjusting insulin and diet to address the higher readings should be sufficient.
If after a couple of weeks blood sugar levels dont return to normal, consult your physician.
Why Should Diabetics Get the Flu Shot?
What to Do if You Get the Flu
Flu & People With Diabetes
People with diabetes , even when well-managed, are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications, which can result in hospitalization and sometimes even death. Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. In recent seasons, about 30% of adults hospitalized with flu reported to CDC had diabetes. Flu also can make chronic health problems like diabetes worse because these conditions can make the immune system less able to fight off infections. Furthermore, acute illnesses like flu can make it harder to control your blood sugar levels. Flu may raise your blood sugar levels, but sometimes people dont feel like eating when they are sick and a reduced appetite can cause blood sugar levels to fall. It is important for people with diabetes to follow the sick day guidelines if they become ill.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes . More than 100 million Americans are living with diabetes or prediabetes .
Don’t Miss: Does Caresource Cover Flu Shots
Possible Side Effects After Getting A Covid
COVID-19 vaccination helps protect people from getting severely ill with COVID-19. Side effects and adverse events could follow any vaccination, including COVID-19 vaccination.
Side effects:Not everyone experiences side effects. However, some people do. Side effects are normal signs that your body is building protection. Side effects may have a short-term affect on your ability to do daily activities and should go away in a few days. If you would like to report a side effect, use V-safe.
Adverse events:Adverse events are rare but could cause a long-term health problem. If an adverse event occurs, it will generally happen within six weeks of receiving a vaccine dose. If you would like to report an adverse event, use Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System .
- During clinical trials, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration collected data on each of the authorized COVID-19 vaccines for a minimum of two months after the final dose.
What Other Medications Interact With Apidra
When starting any new medication, always make sure that your healthcare providers are aware of your full medication list so that they can identify any potential interactions and make adjustments if necessary.
The following drugs have the ability to lower your blood sugar or hide symptoms of low blood sugar, so youll want to look out for signs of hypoglycemia:
- Aspirin
- Sulfonamides like the antibiotic Bactrim
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors that are often used to treat high blood pressure or heart failure, such as Zestril or Altace
The following drugs may reduce how well Apidra works, causing a risk of increased blood sugar:
- Corticosteroids such as Medrol or Rayos
- Thyroid products such as Synthroid
- Estrogens and oral contraceptives
- Calcium channel blocking drugs such as Cardizem , Verelan , or Norvasc
Your healthcare provider may increase your dose of Apidra if you take any of these medications for a long period.
You May Like: Alka Seltzer Cold And Flu Vs Theraflu
What Vaccines Are Available
In November 2020, Pfizer and BioNTech announced positive results from the conclusion of their COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials, quickly followed by Moderna. In February 2021, Johnson & Johnsons announced the same.
Each has now been approved for use in multiple countries across the globe, with a few other vaccines rolling out on a country-by-country basis. Worldwide, more than 90 other vaccines are in various stages of clinical trials.
Each vaccine went through the standard three phases of clinical trials Phase 1, where it is administered to a small number of people to show initial safety, Phase 2 to hundreds of people split into groups by things like age, ethnicity, and background to show how different types of people react to the vaccine, then Phase 3, in which it is given to tens of thousands of people, tested against a placebo. Because of the speed needed for development, both vaccines were approved to go through animal clinical trials at the same time as human Phase 1 clinical trials.
The Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are mRNA vaccines, a type of immunization that does not use the real virus in the vaccine, but instead employs a piece of genetic material to create antibodies against the novel coronavirus. Each of the mRNA vaccines requires two doses, given three to four weeks apart. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is slightly different, which makes it easier to store and only requires one dose.
Redness Pain Or Swelling At The Injection Site
This is another good sign that your immune system is raring to go and responding to the vaccine properly, Dr. Kemmerly says. Plus, any time something breaks the skin barrier , it may get red and swollen as your body reacts to it as a foreign object. This side effects is common and should only last a few days.
Read Also: Can You Get A Flu Shot After Donating Blood
The Truth About Flu Shots
Editors Note: While flu rates were down in 2020 because of quarantining and social distancing, the 2021 flu season is expected to be closer to normal. The actions that protect us from COVID-19 can also protect us from the flu, which can be more intense and tricky to navigate alongside diabetes. Visit coronavirusdiabetes.org to learn more about what you can do as a person with diabetes to keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19 until were all safe. This article is based on current recommendations and research from the CDC.
Its never a good time to get the flu, but now while hospitals and urgent care clinics are still dealing with COVID-19 the best thing we can each do for ourselves and those we love is stay healthy. Easier said than done, of course! But a key thing can help protect you from developing severe symptoms from the flu: get the flu vaccine.
No doubt, your healthcare professional has urged you to get a flu shot. In the United States, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone over 6 months old but if you have diabetes, getting vaccinated is especially important.
Flu shots are a safe, inexpensive, and effective way to lower your risk of getting sick. One study found that flu vaccination is associated with a 79% lower rate of hospitalizations for flu-related complications among people with diabetes. Still, many people have hesitations about getting vaccinated. Here are some of those questions, answered.
Individuals With Diabetes Must Take The Vaccination To Reduce Their Risk Of Developing Covid
Experts have often said that people with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing complications related to Covid-19, and that they must get themselves vaccinated as early as possible. But, vaccination is frequently accompanied by the fear of developing any side effects. However, people must not shy away from taking the vaccine, stress doctors.
Individuals with diabetes, especially, must take the vaccination to reduce their risk of developing Covid-19 related complications, said Dr Anil Reddy, senior diabetes specialist, Lord hospital, Tadipatri, Anantapur, adding that they can take note of a few things which will help them manage any effects post the jab.
Highlighting the importance of a balanced diet for diabetics, especially after taking Covid-19 vaccination, Dr Reddy said that it helps to maintain a stable blood glucose level. Also, diet plays a critical role in building immunity and enhancing it.
People with diabetes who recently got vaccinated must include foods that enhance immunity and have anti-inflammatory properties in their diet, like:
Fish: Fish are rich in omega-3 fat that helps enhance immunity. Also, fish help to reduce inflammation and improve an overall feeling of well-being.
Egg: Eggs are a rich source of protein that helps to build immunity. Eggs also contain essential amino acids that strengthen the immune system.
They must avoid:
Read Also: Cvs Flu Shot Kaiser Insurance
Which Type Of Flu Vaccine Should I Get
There are two main ways flu vaccines are giveninjections and nasal sprays. Experts recommend the flu shot for people with diabetes or CVD.
The safety of nasal spray vaccines for people with these conditions is unknown. Ask your health care provider if you have questions about which way to get the flu vaccine is right for you.
Overdose: What Happens If I Take Too Much Apidra
Because of the risk of hypoglycemia, it is important to take Apidra exactly as prescribed. Test your blood sugar if you experience symptoms of low blood sugar, such as sweating, fast heart rate, or shakiness. If its low, you can take 1520 grams of fast-acting carbs such as a glucose tablet or 4 ounces of sugary soda or juice.
Check your blood sugar again 15 minutes later and repeat this process until your sugar reads at least 70 milligrams per deciliter.
Don’t Miss: Cold And Flu Medicine Delivery
When Should I Get Vaccinated
-
You should get a flu vaccine before flu viruses begin spreading in your community since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against flu. Make plans to get vaccinated early in the fall, before flu season begins. CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated early is likely to be associated with reduced protection against flu infection later in the flu season, particularly among older adults. Vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season, even into January or later. Children who need two doses of vaccine to be protected should start the vaccination process sooner of vaccine to be protected should start the vaccination process sooner because the two doses must be given at least four weeks apart.