Family ad relatives of COVID-19 inpatients: the neglected needs of a vulnerable population

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has violently impacted the Italian population and health care system, with relevant consequences on physical as well as on mental health. To date, the population of COVID-infected inpatients informal caregivers is still understudied, despite preliminary reports suggesting that anxiety may be a concern in this group of individuals. Higher awareness about the specific problems and needs of the relatives/careers/loved ones of COVID-19 inpatients is necessary, to implement prompt support and intervention strategies. The daily phone call may become a valuable opportunity to offer both clinical information about the patient and empathic listening and support to patients relatives, who may find it difficult to ask for help in another context.