ACE2 and Hypertension: The use of intravenous ACE inhibitors and ARB in experimental animals increases ACE2 expression in the cardiopulmonary circulation systems, causing a possible increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection.56 Severe COVID-19 outcomes were described in patients with existing hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease.57 The question was asked whether their current treatment regimens were increasing their risk for infection.