A CITY GP has warned diabetic patients of the high risk of Covid-19 after publishing a paper on the pandemic.

Jason Seewoodhary, who is a GP at Barbourne Health Centre in Worcester which also runs specialist diabetes clinics, said: “Worcester has a massive community with diabetes.

“When this Covid-19 first came about we established there are patients who are at high risk and people with diabetes fall under this category.

“We want to support our community and make sure these patients get the best care as possible. There is an increased risk of death and complications to diabetic patients.”

Mr Seewoodhary, aged 40, said eight percent of Worcestershire’s population has been diagnosed with diabetes or is asymptomatic.

He has urged diabetics to take extra care and has advised them to implement special measures to protect them from the coronavirus.

These include the following: abide social distancing rules, stay at home, check blood sugars every four hours and stay hydrated.

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He added: “I would say to those with diabetes to recognise that you are a high risk patient so speak with your employer and GP to see if you can be shielded so you can stay away and work from home.

“It’s sad to see patients with a disease that’s preventable and easily treated.

“We have had a handful of confirmed Covid-19 cases and a larger number of suspected Covid-19 cases, which cannot be confirmed due to restrictions on testing.

“I really want to bring to the public’s attention that patients with diabetes are at especially high risk hence the implementation of both anticipatory and preventative medicine to safeguard this large patient cohort with our community.

“I also want to educate those who care for patients with diabetes.”

In his paper written with Ravi Oozageer, published in the leading journal Practical Diabetes, it said: “Diabetes UK has issued specific advice on Covid-19 for patients with diabetes, which can be accessed online.

“In summary this includes: following government and NHS advice; implementing sick day rules; maintaining adequate hydration and frequent snacking on carbohydrate-enriched foods … and seeking medical advice if vomiting or unable to keep fluids down.

“It also provides advice on attending routine appointments, employment and socialising, travel and holidays, and practical tips for carers who support patients with diabetes.”