The health and safety of those we serve continues to be the top priority of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). At this time, the World Health Organization (WHO) has made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic. We agree with The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that COVID-19 (coronavirus) is a serious public health threat—and older adults and people with serious chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, are at a higher risk of getting very sick from it. The CDC reports that people in places where ongoing community spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 has been reported are at elevated risk of exposure, with increase in risk dependent on the location.

We know that COVID-19 is fluid and evolving so the ADA is operating under an abundance of caution as we continue to monitor the situation closely. We are evaluating upcoming social events, including our signature fundraising events (Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes® and Tour de Cure®). We will continue to follow the guidance of the CDC and local health authorities and will communicate any event postponements or cancellations as soon as possible. 

The ADA has resources for people with diabetes at diabetes.org/coronavirus. We continue to encourage people with diabetes to follow the guidance of the CDC and to review their diabetes sick day protocols.

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