Indirect Calorimetry during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Practical Guidance for Infection Control

Introduction: Indirect calorimetry (IC) is the optimal tool for the assessment of the resting energy expenditure, as well as the reference standard for energy expenditure measurement. During the outbreak of coronavirus, performing respiratory tests such as IC has become challenging. The current guidance was designed to prevent the virus spread at calorimetry centers. Methods: This protocol was devised in accordance with the latest recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as well as the related articles. Conclusion: Due to the specific features of COVID-19, unnecessary ICs should be avoided in the hotspots of the disease. If these tests must be performed, adherence to the validated infection control recommendations is critical.