Lockdown Linked to Drop in Asthma Attacks by Anjanee Sharma on February 9, 2021 at 4:17 PM Reports show that asthma attack rates saw a 20pc drop in cases at general practice surgeries during the first COVID-19 lockdown of 2020. Asthma attacks (exacerbations) are bouts of shortness of breath, wheezing, or a tight chest. The UK usually sees more than six million GP consultations and 1400 deaths attributed to asthma every year. Researchers suggest lower air pollution levels, fewer cold and flu infections, and the fear of attending doctor surgeries due to COVID-19 as possible reasons. The study consists of data from more than 100,000 patients and is the first national review in the UK of lockdown effects on asthma attacks.