Many people in the UK are living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on people affected by respiratory conditions like COPD.

How Common is COPD?

1. 1.2 million people in the UK are affected by COPD
2. 4.5% of people over the age of 40 have COPD but it does affect younger people too
3. Around 115,000 people are diagnosed with COPD in the UK every year
4. Many people still have undiagnosed COPD and are not receiving the care that they need

How has COVID-19 Affected People with COPD?

1. COPD increases the risk of developing severe symptoms if you are infected with COVID-19
2. Severe COVID-19 symptoms include difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) which could be life-threatening
3. People with COPD are more likely to require hospital treatment if they are affected by COVID-19
4. Most people with severe COPD have been advised to shield themselves while COVID-19 is circulating in the UK

What Should You Do to Protect Yourself from COVID-19 If You Have COPD?

1. Stay at home if you have been told to shield yourself from COPD
2. Practice social distancing if you are able to go out for exercise or other purposes
3. Wash your hands regularly, especially after you have been out or before using medical equipment such as your inhaler or face mask
4. Wear a face covering if you have to spend time in a space where you are unable to stay 2 metres apart from other people
5. Make sure that anyone else in the household is following the same guidance
6. Keep taking your medication or using your inhaler as prescribed
7. Keep using your breathing techniques to clear sputum from your lungs
8. Keep following your exercise routine including any pulmonary rehab exercises
9. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you have any concerns about your health or mental wellbeing