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Diabetes Mellitus with Influenza Virus and Subsequent Bacterial Infection: Triple Pathological Interactions and

Huiqiang Wang1,2,3, Yuhuan Li1,2

  • 1Beijing Key Laboratory of Technology and Application for Anti-Infective New Drugs Research and Development, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 13, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Diabetes mellitus (DM) impairs immunity, increasing risks for influenza and secondary bacterial pneumonia. Integrated management of blood sugar, vaccination, and timely treatments is crucial for prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes hyperglycemia, leading to multi-organ damage and increased pathogen susceptibility.
  • DM is a major risk factor for influenza virus infection and secondary bacterial pneumonia.
  • This review examines the interplay between type 2 DM, influenza, and bacterial infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pathological and physiological interactions between type 2 DM, influenza, and bacterial infections.
  • To elucidate how hyperglycemia and immune-metabolic disorders in DM affect immune function.
  • To understand the mechanisms by which influenza infection exacerbates bacterial susceptibility in diabetic patients.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on the interactions between type 2 DM, influenza, and bacterial infections.
  • Analysis of the impact of chronic hyperglycemia on innate and adaptive immunity.
  • Examination of the synergistic effects of viral and bacterial infections in the context of diabetes.

Main Results:

  • Chronic hyperglycemia and immune-metabolic disorders in DM impair both innate and adaptive immune functions.
  • Influenza infection compromises the respiratory barrier and immune cells, promoting bacterial colonization.
  • Bacterial infection following influenza synergizes with the virus, creating a detrimental cycle.

Conclusions:

  • An integrated strategy is essential for managing influenza and secondary bacterial infections in diabetic patients.
  • Optimized glycemic control is fundamental in mitigating infection risks.
  • Enhanced vaccination and prompt, accurate antiviral/antibacterial therapies are critical for prevention and treatment.
Keywords:
clinical managementdiabetes mellitusinfluenza viruspathogenesissubsequent bacterial infection

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