Retropharyngeal abscess is life-threatening with potential airway emergency. A 53-year-old lady with diabetes mellitus presented with diffuse painful neck swelling for a week and difficulty in breathing with stridor. Video laryngoscopy done in operating theatre showed edematous laryngeal inlets with bulging posterior pharyngeal wall. Patient was tested positive for COVID-19 infection. The management was taken with high precautions, careful planning with unconventional and multidisciplinary approach. Management included airway protection, antibiotic, surgical drainage and correction of hyperglycaemia besides the compliance to COVID-19 SOP. Prognosis is good if identified early, managed aggressively and complications are avoided albeit the comorbidity and COVID-19 infective status