Allergic rhinitis as a comorbid disease with Covid-19 infection

Shchurok I.N., Derkach Y.N.

Vitebsk State Medical University, Vitebsk, Belarus
Vitebsk Regional Children's Clinical Center of the Republic of Belarus

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the most common disease (28.3%) among allergic pathology. Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is characterized by a variety of clinical conditions ranging from mild symptoms to severe pneumonia and death. Nasal and ocular manifestations are included in the number of possible manifestations of Covid-19, therefore differential diagnosis of AR and coronavirus infection is important. The penetration of the Sars-CoV-2 virus occurs through the nasal and oral mucosa; scientists have paid close attention to the local immunity of these mucous membranes. Respiratory allergies have not been reported as risk factors for SARS- CoV-2 infection. Intranasal corticosteroids have a dose- dependent suppression of the expression of both ACE2 and the transmembrane protease, serine 2. Respiratory allergy (AR, asthma) and controlled exposure to allergens are associated with a significant decrease in ACE2 expression. Patients with Covid-19 infection need to continue intranasal corticosteroid treatment at the recommended dose for AR, as more frequent sneezing after cessation means more spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The importance of adhering to inhaled and intranasal corticosteroid therapy, which will achieve optimal control of upper and lower respiratory tract diseases, and may also provide protection against viral triggers, including SARS-CoV-2. Allergic rhinitis is not a contraindication for Covid-19 vaccination.