Vaccination recommendations for people with diabetes mellitus

Patients with diabetes mellitus exhibit an increased susceptibility to infections especially of the respiratory and urinary tract as well as to skin and soft tissue infections. Moreover, even with good metabolic control, diabetes can pose an important risk factor for postoperative wound infections. Secondary organ dysfunction due to diabetes mellitus may also contribute to the increased susceptibility to infections. Vaccinations are one of the most effective medical interventions for the prevention of infections. As a consequence, patients with diabetes mellitus should receive all regular vaccinations recommended by the Standing Vaccination Committee (STIKO) at the Robert Koch Institute. In addition, due to the increased susceptibility to specific infections, regular vaccinations against pneumococci, influenza, and herpes zoster are indicated throughout life. If there is secondary organ dysfunction associated with diabetes, reliable hepatitis B protection and, if necessary, comprehensive meningococcal vaccination should be considered.