The key message we are receiving about coronavirus for people with or without diabetes, is  NOT TO PANIC but BE PREPARED!

Now is the time to become more informed and we recommend three sites in particular:

Ministry of Health;  World Health Organisation and Beyond Type 1

International Diabetes Federation printable advice here

For information about the continuity of insulin and other diabetes supplies, here is a link to Pharmac’s website which provides information about stock levels of pharmaceuticals.

What are the symptoms?

The virus appears to start with a fever, followed by a dry cough. After a week, patients will likely experience shortness of breath and may require hospitalisation.

Other symptoms include:  

• headache

• muscle pain

• high temperature

• fatigue

• shortness of breath, breathing difficulties

• cough.

How to protect yourself

WHO recommends the following:

• Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Especially before eating

• Avoid touching the mouth, nose and eyes with unwashed hands

• When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands

• Carry tissues at all times to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (then dispose of it)

• Avoid close contact with anyone who has a fever and cough. Encourage them to stay away from work or school.

• If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care if you feel unwell and share previous travel history with your healthcare provider

• Be mindful of touching your face after using public transport or going to the airport

• Do not eat shared or communal food

• Avoid shaking hands, kissing cheeks

• Regularly clean and sanitise commonly used surfaces and items, such as phones and keys

• The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices.