Nebulization therapy refers to the use of nebulizers that are medical equipment used to supply medication directly and quickly into the lungs. A nebulizer turns liquid medicine into a fine mist that a person can inhale through a mouthpiece. Generally, nebulization therapy is needed by people who have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, acute respiratory infection, pneumonia, etc. Nebulization therapy has a unique and vital position in the treatment of respiratory diseases. It has several advantages, such as the rapid onset of action, proven efficacy, good safety profile, and is widely used in many respiratory diseases. Nebulization therapy is suitable for most patients, including children, the elderly, patients on mechanical ventilation. Many myths regarding lung health and care, including the function and use of nebulization therapy, have arisen during these unprecedented times of COVID-19. Most people wonder whether nebulization is safe or not?

The Indian Chest Society (ICS), the apex body of pulmonologists in India, has released a document that provides evidence and facts about the use of nebulization therapy during the pandemic, in hospitals, and at home. The lead and corresponding authors of this clinical commentary are Dr. Rajesh Swarnakar from Nagpur while Prof Dr. G C Khilnani from Delhi, Dr. Neeraj Gupta from Ajmer, and Dr. Indranil Halder from Kolkata are other co-authors. In view of the COVID-19 distribution, the authors explained that nebulization is classified as low to medium risk. The use of a conventional face mask during nebulization should be avoided during the pandemic, according to ICS guidelines, particularly when treating COVID-19 patients. Jet nebulizers, on the other hand, can be used with a mouthpiece.

According to the researchers, Asthmatic patients who have no symptoms or a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 should continue to take their necessary nebulized drugs as instructed by their doctor. Standard precautions, such as keeping a safe distance and washing hands, must be practiced. For each nebulization procedure, a new mask, mouthpiece, and tubing should be used. In these times, raising awareness about the effective use of nebulization therapy and imparting information to enable physicians, paramedics, caregivers, and patients to properly handle nebulization is critical. Before beginning nebulization therapy, you should first meet with a doctor.

Many critical practices have been re-evaluated in COVID times. In the respiratory arena, the initial apprehension of aerosols needs to be revisited so that people do not miss out on important things like nebulization. When the profit outweighs the risk, this is particularly true. While nebulization is safe, nebulization at home should be done with all safety measures in mind, such as using a clean nebulizer in a well-ventilated space and disinfecting the nebulizer after each use. It is NOT RECOMMENDED that family members share the nebulizer. To prevent the spread of infection, each nebulizer should only be used by one person. A disposable nebulizer accessory is also an option for patients. Cleaning and disinfecting the nebulizer before and after use is important!