ABSTRACT
Individuals with diabetes are at a heightened risk for development of infections, including skin/soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and lower respiratory tract infections, as well as more complex and rare infections. Research has established that among those with diabetes, especially those with poorly controlled disease, there is a greater risk for the development of infections and related complications due to a complex interplay between various factors, which can be classified as systemic and local host factors and/or specific pathogens. Findings have revealed that infections in those with diabetes are often correlated with increased rates of hospitalization, durations of stay, and complications. Pharmacists are well poised to educate patients about the augmented risk for infection. They can also provide patients with pertinent information regarding measures to reduce or prevent these infections, including clinical guidelines that recommend eligible individuals with diabetes obtain pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19 vaccines. Pharmacists can also emphasize the importance of adherence to therapy and nutritional plans and the impact of tight glycemic control to lessen their risks. Copyright © gettyimages.com / JobsonHealthcare.
ABSTRACT
Current research efforts to combat the COVID-19 virus are geared toward developing therapies to treat the infection and prevent the COVID-19 virus. Moreover, health experts are learning more each day about the long-term health consequences associated with post-COVID-19 infection, including patient populations at greater risk for these complications. The CDC indicates that post-COVID-19 infection, the most common persistent symptoms reported by patients may include fatigue, cough, dyspnea, chest tightness, trouble concentrating, arthralgia, olfactory dysfunction, and headache. While most people recover from the virus, some patients, particularly those with severe infection and chronic comorbidities, may be at risk for and/or develop pulmonary fibrosis. To date, there is no definitive therapy for managing post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis, but clinical trials are underway to explore the role of antifibrotic therapies.