January 15, 2013
Hyperglycemia and DKA, Other
Question from Vermont, USA:
My 18-year-old daughter had a flu shot two days ago. Her diabetes is well controlled; she uses a pump and a glucose sensor. Last night, at 2 a.m., she started to spike, going from 175 mg/dl [9.8 mmol/L] to 405 mg/dl [22.5 mmol/L]. She does see much of a dawn effect. Her site and insulin were fine and she had not eaten anything. Can the immune response from the flu shot cause this?
Answer:
Immunizations, including flu vaccines, are mild infections so that the body learns to protect from the natural infections. So, this is not so uncommon and should be handled like other sick days with 10 to 20% more insulin, checking for ketones and ensuring that hydration remains adequate. Usually, it’s a modified infection so does not last quite as long as the “real” infections. If you have any questions, please contact your diabetes team.
SB
