Fast Facts about COVID -19 & EGIDs from Dr. Marc Rothenburg
- We do not have substantial data about COVID-19 and EGID.
- We do know that EGID is not an immune-deficiency disease.
- There is no known risk for viral infections in EGID patients.
- Patients on eosinophil depleting drugs such as benralizumab and patients with eosinophilia have not been reported to have an increased risk of viral infections and/or complications from viral infections, indicating that eosinophil dysregulation (increased or decreased levels) is not a primary response against viruses.
Fluticasone and Budesonide are not systemic steroid medications, and therefore there’s no immune suppression.
A caveat to this information concerns rare EGID patients that may have another underlying disease or EGID patients on systemic steroids; these patients may have some increased risk for complications. Such patients should consult with their primary doctor for specific advice and guidance.
Patients with concerns should contact their health provider on a case by case basis. This is still a very fluid situation.
Also check https://www.cdc.gov/ and https://www.who.int/
In view of the evolving COVID-19 infection, we advise patients and their families to follow the CDC’s reccommendations for travel, preventative measures and preparedness at www.cdc.gov. Stay updated with your state and local health department’s advisories for your area.
provided by CURED Medical Advisory Board Member
Marc E. Rothenberg MD, PhD
Professor of Pediatrics
Bunning Chair of Allergy and Immunology
Director, Division of Allergy and Immunology
Director, Cincinnati Center for Eosinophilic Disorders
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
