COVID-19 Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms?

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported - ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: 

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

This does not include all possible symptoms. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. 

What Should I Do If I Have COVID-19 Symptoms? 

If you are are sick or think you might have COVID-19 follow the steps below to help protect other people in your home and community. 

  • Stay home except to get medical care
  • Get tested
  • Separate yourself from other people
  • Monitor your symptoms
    • Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately: 
      • Trouble breathing
      • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
      • New confusion
      • Inability to wake or stay awake
      • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone

*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Guidance