We feel it's important to emphasize recommendations of experts in our field when it comes to giving our patients guidance. As members of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), we want to share the following:
- CDC recommends wearing a face covering when in public settings where social distancing is difficult (doctor's office, grocery stores, pharmacy, etc)
- Face masks are key in slowing the spread of this virus
- Masks should be worn in combination with social distancing, hand washing and staying home as much as possible
- If you are feeling sick, stay home
- Face masks should be work by everyone over 24 months of age
- Face masks should not be worn by anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or cannot remove the masks themselves
- There is no evidence that wearing a face mask will make you asthma worse, but some asthma patients may feel like it makes is more difficult to breathe; avoid public spaces as much as possible if you don't tolerate the mask
- Anyone with asthma should maintain medications to keep symptoms under control and reduce possible exacerbation/hospitalization - it's important to continue to follow up with your allergist/physician
