COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Some people infected with the virus may not experience any symptoms at all. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- 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
It is important to note that these symptoms may change with new COVID-19 variants and can vary depending on vaccination status. Older adults and people with underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consider getting tested for COVID-19. If you have already tested positive for COVID-19, follow CDCs isolation guidance. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone.