Flu and pneumonia shots for Diabetes

Overview
People with chronic illnesses such as diabetes are at greater risk for serious complications from influenza (the flu), such as pneumonia. You can protect yourself by receiving a flu shot each year. If you are 65 or older, it may also be beneficial to receive a pneumonia shot.

What does it involve?
For maximum protection from the flu, get a flu shot each year in September or October, before the flu begins spreading widely. The flu vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective. Flu season begins in October and usually peaks between January and March. The flu vaccine cannot infect you with the flu.

The flu shot is usually given into the muscle of the upper arm.

You can receive a flu shot from your doctor. Some pharmacies also offer flu shots on a walk-in basis.

If you are 65 or older, ask your doctor about getting a pneumonia shot.

Constraints
If you are allergic to eggs, tell your doctor or pharmacist. There are egg-free versions of the flu vaccine.

The flu vaccine may not be appropriate for people who have shown hypersensitivity to it in the past.

Your shoulder or arm may feel sore for a day or two after receiving a flu shot. You may experience itching or swelling at the site of the injection.

Some people experience mild flu-like symptoms for a day or two after receiving a flu shot. Symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, fever, and skin rash.