[Asthma and COPD management during the COVID-19 pandemic]

Abstract

Numerous patients with asthma or COPD are likely to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus. Although data is limited, patients with severe and/or uncontrolled asthma and those with COPD appear to be at increased risk of a more severe course of COVID-19 infection. Usual recommendations for management of asthma and COPD remain valid despite the ongoing epidemic. However, lung function testing and nebulisers should be performed with caution during the COVID-19 pandemic due to a potential risk of virus aerosolisation and contagion during the procedure. Particular care must be taken to identify and protect patients who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 infection. Asthma and COPD treatments should be pursued and adapted to ensure optimal control of the lung disease throughout the epidemic, thus reducing the risk of severe COVID-19 disease.