Asthma May Not Increase Chance of Severe COVID

Good news for people with asthma!

A recent report that reviewed the asthma prevalence among patients hospitalized for COVID-19 infection found that there was no higher incidence of intubation in asthmatic versus non-asthmatic patients.  Asthma does not appear to be a risk factor for severe COVID-19.  This was true even after adjusting for BMI and age, which are known risk factors.  Unfortunately, COPD does increase the risk for severe COVID-19 in hospitalized patients. 

Asthma as a risk factor for severe illness is different for influenza.  During the 2019-2020 influenza season, 24% of people hospitalized with influenza had a history of asthma. It’s extremely important for everyone, but especially those with asthma, to get the seasonal flu vaccine now.

It remains prudent to have a supply of any medications and equipment, such as nebulizers and inhalers, needed to keep your lungs healthy and your asthma under control.  Regular mask wearing, frequent hand washing and distancing are still important, whether or not you have asthma or any other pre-existing health condition.