Diabetic patients are being urged to take flu symptoms seriously, as recent findings indicate that the influenza virus can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, complicating diabetes management. Stress hormones released in response to the flu, such as adrenaline and cortisol, stimulate the liver to produce more glucose, exacerbating hyperglycemia in diabetics.
Prof Zaman Sheikh, a diabetologist and endocrinologist, highlighted these concerns during a health seminar titled “Winter and Diabetes” held by Dr Essa Laboratory & Diagnostic Centre in DHA. The seminar focused on the risks flu and other respiratory infections pose to diabetic individuals, particularly during the winter months.
Flu’s Impact on Blood Sugar
According to Prof Sheikh, flu-induced stress hormones not only boost energy to fight infection but also contribute to higher blood sugar levels, making it difficult to bring glucose back to normal levels. These insights were shared as part of an awareness campaign about diabetes, a condition affecting nearly 14% of the global adult population.
A recent study published in The Lancet reveals that the prevalence of diabetes has doubled in the past three decades, with low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan bearing a significant portion of the burden. Prof Sheikh noted that the rate of diabetes among women in Pakistan has surged dramatically, with nearly one-third of women now diagnosed, compared to just 10% in 1990. He emphasized that obesity plays a key role in the rising rates of type 2 diabetes, particularly in younger populations.
The Rise of Respiratory Viruses
In addition to the flu, Farhan Essa Abdullah, CEO of Dr Essa Laboratory, discussed the recent uptick in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China and India. This virus, which shares similarities with the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), can cause upper respiratory infections that resemble the flu. While most HMPV cases are mild, the virus poses increased risks for the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. Abdullah stressed that there are currently no vaccines or antivirals for HMPV, although some are under development.
He also reassured the public that the risk of a pandemic-like scenario with HMPV was low, as the virus has been circulating for decades, and immunity from past infections exists in the global population. However, he urged people to take preventative measures, including wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and staying home when unwell to limit the spread of infections.
Vaccination Key to Prevention
Prof Faizullah S Lokhandwala, a physician and chest specialist, concluded the seminar by stressing the importance of flu vaccination, especially for those with diabetes. He advised that even well-managed diabetics are at heightened risk for serious complications from the flu.
Prof Lokhandwala emphasized that vaccination was crucial for vulnerable groups, including healthcare workers, pregnant women, young children, the elderly, smokers, and travelers, particularly Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. He underscored that the flu vaccine is the best way to protect oneself and loved ones during flu season.
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