The big questions

Our experts give straightforward answers to your knotty COVID questions.

Am I more likely to catch COVID?

If you have diabetes, you are no more likely to catch COVID than anyone else. There is strong evidence that people with diabetes are more vulnerable to developing a severe illness if they do catch COVID, however.

What happens if I do catch COVID?

Everyone’s COVID experience will be different, so there is no predicting whether you will experience a mild or severe illness. Most people with diabetes will experience a mild illness, but it’s important to note that what medical professionals call “mild” can still make you feel extremely unwell. “Mild” COVID simply means your illness can be managed at home. Moderate or severe illness may require medical assistance or hospitalisation. People with diabetes, whether type 1, type 2, gestational or other types, are more vulnerable to developing a severe illness if they do get COVID, although the risk of serious illness in young people with type 1 diabetes is still thought to be very low. It is a good idea for people with diabetes to prepare for possible hospitalisation. Follow a sick-day management plan that you have discussed with your diabetes educator. The aim of such plans is to make sure you know how to manage insulin or other diabetes medications, check for and interpret blood ketone levels (type 1 diabetes only) and blood glucose levels when you're sick. Always tell healthcare professionals treating you that you have diabetes. The WA Health Department has introduced a WA COVID Care at Home scheme, available for those assessed to be at higher risk of hospitalisation. Register if you catch COVID and a health professional will be in touch to assess your risk to see if you could benefit from monitoring your health at home.

Why is COVID more dangerous for people with diabetes?

because of related complications. COVID is not just a respiratory illness, but a multi-systemic virus, meaning it can affect many different parts of the body. Your risk of getting very sick from COVID is likely to be lower if your diabetes is well-managed. If you have a history of heart disease or kidney disease or have a high HbA1c, you may be more at risk. Other factors including your age, your ethnicity and your weight can affect that risk. Inflammation associated with diabetes might also play a role. Because people with diabetes may already have some inflammation in their system, inflammation associated with COVID might get worse more quickly. Blood flow because of clotting problems or circulation issues could be exacerbated by COVID. Even if your diabetes is well-managed, COVID, like any illness, can make your blood glucose levels go all over the place. This is because your body produces stress hormones when you are unwell, causing the liver to release glucose into the blood to give you energy to fight off the illness. If your body can’t produce enough insulin to cope with

All eligible Australians living with diabetes are encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID. Vaccines approved for use in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, including those made by Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Novovax, are suitable for people living with diabetes.

this, your blood glucose rises, making it harder to manage your diabetes. If the body does not have enough insulin to cope with these rising blood glucose levels, a person may even require urgent medical assistance to manage their diabetes. For example, people living with type 1 diabetes may be at increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Aside from the virus itself, some of the treatments for COVID (for example steroid medications) may also cause glucose levels to change.

Does it matter what type of diabetes you have?

Children and teens with type 1 diabetes appear to be at a lower risk of severe COVID than older people with type 2 diabetes. This may be because being older is an additional risk factor for COVID, as are the sort of illnesses and conditions people develop as they age.

How can I reduce my risk of becoming more unwell with COVID?

of COVID is to keep up-to-date with your COVID vaccinations. At present, the health guidelines recommend two doses followed by a third booster dose. An additional vaccination is recommended for those who are severely immunocompromised, although it is important to note that people with diabetes are generally not considered immunocompromised. Being vaccinated might not prevent you getting symptomatic illness, but the evidence is – even with Omicron – that your risk of serious illness or hospitalisation is greatly reduced after three doses.

You can also strive to maintain glucose levels within your target range as much as possible to further reduce your risk. Research has shown that having a high HbA1c or being overweight can increase your risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID. Additionally, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and being physically active will help your immune system. Although many claims have been made about the importance of supplements such as vitamin D, there is currently limited evidence that they will help. It is also important that you follow the latest health advice about wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing and practicing good personal hygiene. You can call our helpline on on 1300 001 880 and ask to speak with a credentialled diabetes educator.

I have Gestational Diabetes (GDM)– what is the risk to me?

As with other types of diabetes, women who are pregnant and have gestational diabetes (GDM) are not more likely to get COVID. However, there is some evidence that suggests that pregnant women are at greater risk of becoming more unwell with COVID, whether they have GDM or not.

It is recommended that women with GDM are vaccinated against COVID and manage their blood glucose levels to reduce their risk. For individualised advice regarding COVID and pregnancy, it is recommended you talk to your health care team.