Symptoms
COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that feel like a cold or flu, but it can also harm other parts of the body. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become very sick. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to COVID-19.
Possible symptoms 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
This list does not include all possible symptoms.
Some people with COVID-19 experience long-term effects, like shortness of breath, chest pain and brain fog. This is known as post-COVID conditions or long COVID.
Feeling sick?
Find where you can pick up tests to take home.
What to Do If You Feel Sick
CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance
My COVID-19 Plan - a fillable form that helps prepare you in case you get sick with COVID-19
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you have any of these signs:
- 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.
In the event of an emergency, call 911.