Is asthma a risk factor for coronavirus disease-2019 worse outcomes? The answer is no, but …

Abstract

Purpose of review: To search for evidence on whether having asthma increases the risk of poor outcomes of COVID-19 and report on recommendations on optimal asthma management in times of COVID-19.

Recent findings: Patients with asthma are neither at greater risk of becoming infected by SARS-CoV-2 nor they are at risk of complications of COVID-19 but those requiring frequent use of oral corticosteroid may be at greater risk.

Summary: In general, patients with asthma are not at risk of COVID-19 morbidity or mortality. On the contrary, patients with asthma may be at lower risk of hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This may be related to asthma and its treatment, to patient's behavior, to the health system, and to collective changes in activities. It is likely that reduction in respiratory infections because of social distancing, face masks, and hand washing have a role in the reduction in asthma hospitalizations. Management of asthma in times of COVID-19 must be optimized, medication have to be used regularly and exacerbations detected early. Systemic corticosteroids may be used for control of severe asthma or severe exacerbations. Patient education on an action plan is crucial, as well as facilitating communications with the healthcare team.