PETALING JAYA: Asthma in children must be managed and treated properly to reduce the risk of a severe form of Covid-19, says an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.

       Consultant ENT surgeon Datuk Dr Balwant Singh Gendeh said children with respiratory illnesses such as asthma were at higher risk of developing serious Covid-19 symptoms or dying from it.

       “Chronic asthma, which is uncontrolled or does not receive proper treatment, can lead to constriction of the airway. The capacity of the lungs to take in oxygen is restricted because of this.

       “If the child has Covid-19 which causes inflammation of the lungs, this may lead to blood clots and even lead to the death of a child.

       “As such, the risk of fatality from Covid-19 is higher for a child with asthma as compared to a child of the same age who does not have such a respiratory condition,” he said when contacted.

       A number of children with underlying respiratory health problems has succumbed to Covid-19.

       Dr Balwant, who is Association of Specialists in Private Medical Practice of Malaysia vice-president, said if a child was an asymptomatic carrier of Covid-19, late detection could also contribute to a more severe prognosis of the disease.

       “I would advise that children suffering from asthma be treated properly. They should go to see a respiratory physician and get the right medication,” he said.