According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “People with moderate to severe asthma may be at higher risk of getting sick from COVID-19. COVID-19 can affect your respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs), cause an asthma attack, and possibly lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease.” The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) states that, “At this time, there is little data about how the new coronavirus affects people with asthma. One study of 140 cases showed no link to asthma. However, we know that asthma has worsened with other strains of coronavirus.” Thus, AAFA does recommend that people with asthma follow the CDC guidelines and take extra precautions to avoid contracting COVID-19.
The CDC stresses the importance of keeping your asthma under control during this time. If you have been diagnosed with asthma, you are encouraged to follow your asthma action plan:
- Continue your current medications including any inhalers with steroids/corticosteroids in them.
- Speak with your healthcare provider before stopping or changing any medication or asthma treatment plan.
- Speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have about your treatment.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider, insurer and pharmacist, the best way for you to have an emergency supply of prescription medications, such as asthma inhalers for at least 30 days.
- Know how to use your inhaler.
- Avoid your asthma triggers.
- Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety as they can also trigger asthma attacks.
- If possible, have someone who is not asthmatic clean and disinfect high touch areas often, when you are not in the room. Make sure that the room is well ventilated after using strong chemical disinfectants.
To speak with a healthcare provider at Primary Medical Care Center & Urgent Care Clinic to assess any non-emergency health concerns, including asthma and suspected COVID-19 symptoms, please call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911. For coronavirus updates and resources, please visit our website at www.primarymed.com.