Pfaar O, Klimek L, Jutel M, Akdis CA4, Bousquet J, Breiteneder H et al.
Allergy. 2020 Jun 12;10.1111/all.14453. doi: 10.1111/all.14453. Online ahead of print..
Earlier in March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the “corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19)” a pandemic viral disease, transmitted by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Since the first cases were reported in China, the number of infected patients and fatalities have been increasing worldwide. Typical symptoms of COVID-19 include general malaise, fever, respiratory problems, and especially cough and shortness of breath. Specialists in the field of allergies and associated airways diseases have been in the front line, taking care of patients.
Coronaviruses may be associated with aggravation of asthma exacerbations and allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria and drug hypersensitivity).
This review identified studies that reported allergic diseases as co-morbidities of COVID-19 patients compared to non-allergic patients. A panel of experts have developed recommendations for the optimal management of allergic clinics during the pandemic to ensure necessary safety.
Allergic patients diagnosed with or suspect to have COVID-19 should follow the local area treatment and quarantine guidance. In general, most medications should be continued. For those unable to attend clinics, have examinations and/or receive prescriptions, e-health and telemedicine can assess the value of specialized treatments, provide educations for self-management without the risk of infection and triage patients for urgent consultations, such as diagnostic testing in drug allergy or application of medication. When biologicals are used, the decision to continue a treatment should be made on a case basis since the safety and efficacy of the mentioned biologics in COVID-19 patients are unknown. Psychological care for allergic patients during the pandemic is also essential.
Patients with allergic rhinitis and other allergies should be informed accordingly when new evidence is available, making it possible to adapt to new therapies.
