People with diabetes are between three and six times more likely to be hospitalised as a result of the infection compared to people without diabetes and once hospitalised they are up to 92 times more likely to die.

Two of Australia's leading health organisations - Diabetes Australia and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners - have joined forces to encourage more than 650,000 Australians with diabetes aged over 65 to receive a flu vaccination, after last year's killer season claimed more than 1000 lives.

"All Australians with diabetes should get the flu shot, but older Australians are at a higher risk of severe flu and even death," said Diabetes Australia Chief Greg Johnson.

There were several reasons why influenza was more serious for people with diabetes, he said.

"Diabetes may impair a person's immune system which can impact on how the body responds to the flu and increase the risk of serious infection.

"When you've got the flu, it's harder to eat, drink and take your diabetes medication, all of which can make it more difficult for people to manage their

diabetes. In some cases, this can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis and even death.

"The enhanced flu vaccines which are newly available this year have been proven to provide a better protection against the flu," he said.

President of the RACGP Bastian Seidel also encouraged patients to take advantage of the Federal Government's free influenza vaccines for people with diabetes.

"Patients with diabetes should take advantage of free vaccinations available to them through their GP," Dr Seidel said.

"Specialist GPs are up-to-date on when the flu season will affect Australian patients and will continue to offer vaccinations throughout the flu season."

"Your GP can offer specific advice that is suited to you and your family's individual needs and circumstances."

Dr Seidel said vulnerable members of the community would be protected if more Australians receive their vaccination, ahead of this year's flu season.

"We want to see enough people vaccinated to create herd immunity that will impede the spread of flu across the community," Dr Seidel said.

"It will protect those who are vulnerable to influenza, like children and the elderly."

This article first appeared on www.thesenior.com.au