‘I don’t want to take any risks this winter’

Sky Sports presenter Adam Smith, 37, was shocked by his diabetes diagnosis – but it’s encouraged him to be extra-careful when there are viruses about

Why is it important to you to have your Covid and flu vaccinations?

As a type 1 diabetic, I’m fully aware that the potential side effects of contracting flu, colds or Covid can be more severe and can play havoc with my blood sugar levels. As someone who is immunocompromised and who has experienced these side effects in the past, and with my work schedule presenting shows and shoots all over the country during the Premier League season and upcoming World Cup, I don’t want to take any risks this winter.

I’m aware that the potential side effects of contracting flu, colds or Covid can be more severe

Did your diabetes diagnosis come as a shock to you?

When I was first diagnosed in 2015, it was a total shock to me, and I kept it to myself and close family and friends for a couple of years. I didn’t have any ongoing health issues and had full bloods taken six months prior to diagnosis,

for something completely different, which showed nothing amiss. That changed really rapidly within a few months when I suddenly became very ill – I was exhausted and losing weight, with a raging thirst and constant need to go to the loo.

How did you react to the news?

It was so challenging to get my head round. I’d been in hospital before for minor things, where everything gets sorted and then you leave. Not this time. I was told: “You have type 1 diabetes and will need to inject insulin every day.” How often? “Five times a day.” For how long?” For the rest of your life. If you don’t, you won’t survive.”

So it’s even more vital you have the vaccinations?

Yes! I personally don’t want to take chances, which is why I will be getting my Covid and flu vaccinations this winter.