Managing asthma in the COVID-19 pandemic and current recommendations from professional bodies: a review

Abstract

Objective

To provide a summary of the management of asthma in the current COVID-19 pandemic by examining and comparing the recommendations from various professional bodies.

Data sources and study selection

Websites of known respiratory professional bodies were searched for COVID-19 guidance related to asthma. Subject matter experts were also consulted for useful resources. Resources that were targeted at healthcare professionals were included, while those targeting patients and the general public were excluded.

Results

There is currently little data to suggest that asthma protects from or increases the risk of COVID-19, nor is there any data to support strong recommendations for or against specific asthma treatments. Physicians should continue to manage asthma according to existing accepted asthma guidelines and recommendations. All prescribed medications, especially inhaled corticosteroids, should be continued, and, where indicated, oral corticosteroids and biologic therapies should still be used. Nebulizers and spirometry should be avoided where possible to reduce the risk of viral transmission. A detailed history should be taken to differentiate asthma exacerbations from COVID-19.

Conclusion

Understanding similarities and differences among the recommendations of the various professional bodies will aid in medical decision-making in managing asthma in the COVID-19 pandemic. Health professionals should also consider the individual needs, preferences and values of their patients and the unique characteristics of their local healthcare systems.

Keywords:

• COVID-19
• asthma
• novel coronavirus
• SARS-CoV-2

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America for the use of their chart. This article is also dedicated to every healthcare provider fighting this pandemic and our COVID-19 patients.

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial or non-financial interest related to this manuscript.