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Living well with type 2 diabetes – what to do when you are sick fact sheet

Like everyone, people living with type 2 diabetes get sick with everyday illnesses such as influenza (flu), a cold, gastro, or other common infections. It is important to be prepared and to know what to do if you get sick. This includes having a personalised sick day action plan, and a sick day kit ready to use at the earliest sign of illness.

Start following your sick day action plan immediately if you feel unwell or have any signs of illness. Contact your doctor early to get medical treatment so you can avoid becoming more unwell and needing emergency care. Understanding how to manage your diabetes when you are sick and having a personalised plan can reduce the risk of developing serious problems.

Read more in our fact sheet or watch our video on managing diabetes when you are unwell.

Living well with type 2 diabetes – what to do when you are sick fact sheet

Like everyone, people living with type 2 diabetes get sick with everyday illnesses such as influenza (flu), a cold, gastro, or other common infections. It is important to be prepared and to know what to do.

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Related resources

Living well with type 2 diabetes – managing diabetes when you are sick webinar

This pre-recorded webinar gives helpful tips on how to look after type 2 diabetes during times of illness or stress.

Watch now
Find a sick day action plan

To find a sick day action plan that is right for you, go to the Australian Diabetes Education Association website.

Find out more

Diabetes Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this Country. We recognise their connection to land, waters, winds and culture. We pay the upmost respect to them, their cultures and to their Elders, past and present. We are committed to improving health outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by diabetes and those at risk.

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