COVID-19 Update

The Australian Government is taking a range of actions to protect the Australian community from the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus).



Planning for Diabetes

The Australian Government, in particular, the Department of Health has advised that there are currently no shortages or supply issues with products or insulin and other diabetes medicines. People living with diabetes are advised to purchase their products and medicines as usual. For people living with diabetes we recommend being prepared, this does not mean stockpiling.

Some diabetes medicines have shorter expiry dates than other products. Pharmacies may not keep these products with shorter expiry dates on their shelves. However, they order these products when requested and are usually delivered to the pharmacy within 24 to 48 hours.

Blood Ketone Strips

The NDSS (National Diabetes Services Scheme) is currently working with Abbott to ensure the ongoing availability of ketone strips. Abbott has advised Diabetes Australia that they are continuing to monitor their sales and have released additional into the supply chain to help resolve local shortages.

If you are having difficulty accessing blood ketone strips, please contact Abbott on 1800 8014 78.

Where to find more information about COVID-19

More information is available via the Australian Government’s Coronavirus information page at health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert. This page is updated regularly.

If you have any questions about COVID-19, please call the Australian Government’s Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. This helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you are feeling concerned or anxious, please contact the Diabetes Australia helpline on 1800 637 700 for advice and support.

IBD Medical was born in Sydney Australia. Our mission is to help improve the lives of people living with diabetes by providing the best possible support products and information.