Is it both Types 1 and 2 for isolation?

[WagtailRobin]

I have Type 2 Diabetes (Not related to weight) and for about 18 months had chosen not to medicate, but recently my GP has been adamant I should start medication as my Diabetes is not under control; I was due to attend a clinic this week with the intention of starting Metformin.

I also have Hypothyroidism which I take 125mg daily of Levothyroxine for and I smoke; I am "invited" for the flu jab every year.

I have read all of the official updates and government notices etc but I am still unsure as to whether Type 2 Diabetics are included in the list of "at risk", every notice simply says "Diabetes" but doesn't clarify which Type or if it is both types.

Does anyone have any clarity on this? I have spent hours today trying to phone the GP but the line has constantly been busy. Do I really need to self isolate for 12 weeks? Sorry if this has already been asked. Is anyone else a Type 2 and wondering the same?

[WyfOfBathe]

Currently, people in the main at risk group, such as diabetics aren't yet being told to self-isolate for 12 weeks, but just to "be particularly stringent in following social distancing measures".

I would assume that "diabetes" refers to both types. The government website links to the NHS page on diabetes, which covers both types. I'm not sure whether your GP would be able to clarify or not.

The guidance is vague. For example, some adults get a flu jab for unrelated chronic conditions which aren't on the list.

[starwolf]

Several issues addressed here: www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51703892

[AbsentmindedWoman]

I'm type 1.

I'd hazard a guess that as many older people have died, a lot of the diabetics had type 2.

Really it has a lot to do with your hba1c, a Harvard prof has put forward his theory on this. Excessively glycolated haemeglobin creates an environment where the virus is better able to disrupt the heme and bed in.

How is your diabetes management? Is your a1c under 7 - preferably under 6? Do you spike over about 8 post meal much? These are relevant factors.

The closer to normal non-diabetic blood sugars you get, the less potent the risk.

[starwolf]

Just seen this thread which has better info...
www.mumsnet.com/Talk/coronavirus/3850555-Gov-list-of-vulnerable-conditions-here

[WagtailRobin]

@WyfOfBathe Thank you for the reply!

Yeah, the advice (if we can even call it that) is definitely vague, very non committal and I am sure plenty of people haven't a clue what they are being "advised" to do.

[Gingerkittykat]

Diabetes uk are not currently recommending self isolation for type 1 or 2.