As a diabetes patient, you have the same chance of becoming infected with the coronavirus as any other random person. But because the immune system is disrupted in diabetics, resistance is generally somewhat lower. This means that complaints can be more serious in nature. In the case of COVID-19, this is (severe) shortness of breath, fever, cold complaints, coughing and a loss of smell/taste. To avoid becoming infected, there are several precautions you can take.
Wash hands
Wash hands regularly with soap and water for twenty seconds. Do this especially before you start cooking, before and after eating, after going to the toilet, when touching animals, when you go outside, when you return home and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Use the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing. This way you prevent others from possibly becoming infected if you are already unknowingly infected yourself. Wash your hands thoroughly by rubbing between your fingers and including your wrists. Instead of a cotton cloth, use a paper towel when drying. It is a myth that hot water is better than cold water. Bacteria and dirt are also released in cold water.
Disinfect
A disinfectant hand gel often only works if the hands have been washed beforehand with soap and water. If not, only the dirt is removed from the hands. When used properly with a disinfectant, most pathogens are killed. Such agents are mainly used in public areas where the risk of contamination is high. It is not the intention to use disinfectants at home, because micro-organisms can become desensitized with frequent use. Do you want to disinfect certain surfaces, such as door handles and tables? Use an all-purpose cleaner or a combination of soap and water.
Mouth masks
The government now recommends using face masks in public spaces. These are non-medical face masks that may help prevent virus transmission. It also has a psychological effect and people will be more aware of keeping their distance from others. Cotton face masks can be washed at 60 degrees (complete program), but it is advisable to use a new face mask regularly. This may be used for a maximum of 3 consecutive hours. Always make sure you take some spare items with you. Order face masks online and you will receive them within a day.
One and a half meters away
Avoid groups and keep a distance of one and a half meters from others (two arm lengths). Warn the people in your social circle about the increased risk you face as a diabetic. People will automatically take you more into account. When you have an appointment with a nurse or doctor, it is not always possible to maintain such a distance. In that case, make sure you wear a face mask. Your diabetes materials, such as glucose meters, you can easily buy online. This way you don't have to go out risky.
How can I get tested for corona?
If you suffer from complaints that may indicate corona, stay at home and call your doctor the number 0800-1202 (daily between 08.00:22.00 and 48:XNUMX). The complaints are: breathing problems, cold symptoms, fever, coughing and loss of taste or smell. An appointment will then be scheduled with you. During testing, a sample is taken from your throat and/or from the nasal mucosa with a cotton swab. This is then analyzed by a laboratory. You will receive a definitive answer by telephone within XNUMX hours and, if the test is positive, the next steps will be explained.