GINA has released recommendations for individuals with asthma regarding behavior during the COVID-19 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic. GINA – the Global Initiative for Asthma – is a leading organization that brings together physicians, scientists, and healthcare professionals to reduce the prevalence and severity of asthma worldwide.

♦ People with asthma should continue to take all inhaled medications, including corticosteroids, as prescribed by their doctor.

♦ In case of an acute asthma attack, the patient should take a short course of oral (systemic) corticosteroids to prevent serious consequences, if this is recommended by the doctor (included in the individual action plan of the patient with asthma).

♦ In rare cases, patients with severe asthma may require long-term treatment with oral corticosteroids in addition to inhaled agents. Oral corticosteroids should be continued at the lowest possible dose in patients at risk of severe asthma attacks/exacerbations. Immunobiological therapy should be used in patients with severe asthma who meet the criteria for such treatment to reduce the need for oral corticosteroids.

♦ The use of nebulizers during acute asthma attacks should be avoided if possible due to the increased risk of spreading COVID-19 (to other patients, doctors, and other healthcare facility staff).

For severe asthma attacks, pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) with a spacer should be preferred (the spacer should not be used at home).

During treatment of a severe asthma attack, maintenance inhalation therapy should be continued (at home and in hospital).

♦ Patients with allergic rhinitis should use their nasal corticosteroids as prescribed by their doctor.

♦ Routine spirometry should be temporarily suspended to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection, and if it is necessary to perform it, all sanitary and epidemiological control rules should be observed.