CONCLUSIONS
After an extensive review of the current literature, only one study
reported information on asthma as a potential risk factor for COVID-19
severity –but not mortality– in children. However, the largest studies
to date have been limited to a description of the number of cases by age
group, and so it remains unclear whether childhood asthma –or other
pediatric respiratory diseases– are associated with COVID-19 risk or
severity.
We hereby ask the public health community to move beyond confirming
what’s already known –that the disease affects children and young
adults less frequently and severely than older groups– and to study
affected pediatric populations in more detail. Does asthma constitute a
risk factor for COVID-19 in children? Do asthma severity or control
modify the course of the disease? Are asthma medications (particularly
ICS and systemic steroids) or their doses protective or detrimental?
Given the limited numbers of pediatric cases in any one given
center/country, collaborative international efforts may be the only way
to shed light on the topic. This will be true not just for childhood
asthma but for pediatric diseases in general.