COVID-19: What to Do if You Get Sick
If you have diabetes and have contracted covid-19, it is important to continue a normal schedule of medication. But there are important steps to take to avoid complications.
Wash your hands and clean your injection/infusion and finger-stick sites with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Monitor your blood sugar and ketones more than usual. This is highly important if you are not eating or drinking much, or if you are taking medication to address symptoms such as fever and muscle aches.
It may be necessary to take extra insulin to bring down higher blood glucose levels.
Be on the lookout for ketones, as very high levels could lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a dangerous condition that demands immediate medical attention, and can be fatal if left untreated. If you are vomiting, or have moderate or large ketones or symptoms of DKA, contact your healthcare provider immediately and seek emergency assistance.
Drink lots of fluids. If you are having trouble keeping water down, have small sips every 15 minutes or so throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
If you are experiencing a low (blood sugar below 70 mg/dl or your target range), eat 15 grams of simple carbs that are easy to digest like honey, jam, Jell-O, hard candy, popsicles, juice or regular soda, and re-check your blood sugar in 15 minutes to make sure your levels are rising. Check your blood sugar extra times throughout the day and night (generally, every 2-3 hours; if using a CGM, monitor frequently).
Be aware that some CGM sensors (Dexcom G5, Medtronic Enlite, and Guardian) are impacted by Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Check with finger sticks to ensure accuracy.
Diabetes Disaster Response Coalition (DDRC)
Email: diabetesdisasterresponse@gmail.com
Call: 765-314-DDRC (765-314-3372)