Vietnam medical experts urge vaccination for diabetes and kidney disease patients

Medical experts in Vietnam are highlighting the increased risk of infectious diseases for individuals living with chronic kidney disease and diabetes. As Vietnam's elderly population is projected to reach approximately 18 million by 2030, health professionals are emphasizing the need for proactive preventive measures.

Research indicates that diabetes can increase the risk of shingles by 38% and heighten the severity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections. Similarly, chronic kidney disease is associated with a 29% higher risk of shingles and increased vulnerability to severe RSV.

Medical leaders, including Associate Professor Nguyen Khoa Dieu Van of the Vietnam Association of Endocrinology and Diabetes, state that vaccination should be viewed as an essential “immune shield,” as critical as managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipids. International guidelines from KDIGO and the American Diabetes Association also support vaccination as a key intervention for these patient groups.