Table 2 Asthma-specific recommendations from Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) as reported on GINA website [34]

People with asthma should continue all of their inhaled medication, including inhaled corticosteroids, as prescribed by their doctor

In acute asthma attacks patients should take a short course of oral corticosteroids if instructed in their asthma action plan or by their healthcare provider, to prevent serious consequences

In rare cases, patients with severe asthma might require long-term treatment with oral corticosteroids (OCS) on top of their inhaled medication(s). This treatment should be continued at the lowest possible dose in these patients at risk of severe attacks/exacerbations. Biologic therapies should be used in severe asthma patients who qualify for them, in order to limit the need for OCS as much as possible

Nebulizers should, where possible, be avoided for acute attacks due to the increased risk of disseminating COVID-19 (to other patients AND to physicians, nurses and other personnel)

 Pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) via a spacer is the preferred treatment during severe attacks. (Spacers must not be shared at home)

 While a patient is being treated for a severe attack, their maintenance inhaled asthma treatment should be continued (at home AND in the hospital)

Patients with allergic rhinitis should continue to take their nasal corticosteroids, as prescribed by their clinician

Routine spirometry testing should be suspended to reduce the risk of viral transmission, and if absolutely necessary, adequate infection control measures should be taken