The study authors note that persistently high blood sugar impairs immune function and damages blood vessels, which makes people with diabetes more susceptible to severe dengue infection.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/data.indianexpress.com\/election2019\/track_1x1.jpg\"){kind=spacer}
<\/p>\nAccording to the authors, such patients are more likely to develop an exaggerated inflammatory response, or a \u201ccytokine storm\u201d, which can result in dengue haemorrhagic fever, internal bleeding and, in severe cases, dengue shock syndrome, a potentially fatal condition marked by a sharp fall in blood pressure.<\/p>\n
DISCLAIMER:\u00a0This article is based on information from the public domain and\/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n Diabetologist Dr Jothydev Kesavadev led the paper, which was co-authored by several leading diabetes experts from across the country, along with Dr Niti Pall, President-Elect of the International Diabetes Federation, Europe.<\/p>\n \u201cIn India, there are more than 100 million people affected by diabetes. And among diabetics, there is a close to 2-4 times risk of developing heart attack, stroke, and multiple other infections and complications. Despite treatment, in 80-90 per cent of people, glucose remains high in our country. In our recommendation, we have mentioned that the dengue vaccine should be a part of routine care in diabetes,\u201d Dr Jothydev told indianexpress.com<\/em>.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s what you should note.<\/p>\n Dr Rajiv Kovil, diabetes and obesity specialist at Zandra Healthcare, said that this is not a randomised trial but a review of existing evidence. \u201cInternational observational studies and meta-analyses consistently suggest that people with diabetes who contract dengue have a higher likelihood of severe disease and possibly death. However, association does not prove causation, and the risk may also reflect age, obesity, kidney disease<\/a><\/strong>, hypertension or poor glycaemic control,\u201d said Dr Kovil.<\/p>\n Story continues below this ad<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The initial symptoms are similar for anyone with dengue and include high fever, severe body aches, headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea, and skin rash. \u201cHowever, people with diabetes should be particularly aware if they experience persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, unusual drowsiness, bleeding from the gums or nose, reduced urine output, dizziness, or sudden weakness. They should also check their blood glucose more often because infections can cause unpredictable spikes or, in some cases, low sugar episodes due to poor food intake,\u201d said Dr Vijay Negalur, HoD diabetology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane. Prevention starts with avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and getting rid of stagnant water around the home. Dr Negalur said that it is equally important to keep diabetes well-managed since stable blood sugar supports a stronger immune response<\/a><\/strong>. \u201cStay well-hydrated, eat balanced meals, and don\u2019t ignore a fever that lasts more than a day or two. Anyone with diabetes who shows symptoms of dengue should seek medical advice early rather than wait for the illness to worsen,\u201d said Dr Negalur.<\/p>\n \u201cVaccination recommendations must follow approved indications and national policy,\u201d added Dr Kovil.<\/p>\n If someone with diabetes is diagnosed with dengue, are there any special treatment or monitoring considerations?<\/p>\n Story continues below this ad<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Dr Negalur noted that some diabetes medications might need \u201ctemporary adjustments\u201d based on the patient\u2019s condition, appetite, and hydration status. \u201cTimely medical supervision<\/a><\/strong> and regular monitoring of platelet counts, blood glucose, and overall health can greatly lower the risk of serious complications and support a smoother recovery,\u201d said Dr Negalur.<\/p>\n DISCLAIMER:\u00a0This article is based on information from the public domain and\/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\nSymptoms to watch out for.<\/h3>\n
\n![\"drinking](\"https:\/\/images.indianexpress.com\/2026\/07\/drinking-water_1600_getty.jpg\")
Hydration is crucial (Photo: Getty Images\/Thinkstock)<\/span><\/p>\nPrevention<\/h3>\n