COVID-19 & Asthma: EXHALE Guidelines From the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention by Sophia L. Thomas, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, FNAP, FAANP

May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists people with asthma as one of the key demographics at risk of severe illness from COVID-19, as it is a respiratory condition.

It is highly recommended that people with asthma obtain their COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible and follow additional CDC guidelines to minimize their risk of contracting the virus. Beyond these general safety guidelines, people living with asthma should practice strategies to better control their condition. To help facilitate this, the CDC has released a guideline for patients called EXHALE:

• Education on asthma self-management. 
• X-tinguishing smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. 
• Home visits for trigger reduction and asthma self-management education. 
• Achievement of guidelines-based medical management. 
• Linkages and coordination of care across settings. 
• Environmental policies or best practices to reduce asthma triggers from indoor, outdoor or occupational sources.

By following the EXHALE guidelines, people living with asthma can reduce risk and live a healthier lifestyle. If you have any questions or need help with developing an asthma protocol, please speak to your health-care provider, like a nurse practitioner.

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