COVID illness is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus has been shown to mutate frequently, with the severity of illness and some symptoms differing for the variants. In general, COVID symptoms are non-specific and can resemble other respiratory infections. Only specific testing can identify COVID infection. It’s important to recognize possible COVID symptoms to know when to be tested. Treatments are available for those who test positive.
What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms usually start two to 14 days after exposure. Infected people will usually experience some combination of the following:
- Flu-like symptoms: fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue and/or cough
- Respiratory symptoms: shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, runny or congested nose, and/or sore throat
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Loss or change in the senses of smell or taste
If you experience severe symptoms, including but not limited to, trouble breathing, bluish lips, chest pain or pressure, severe pain, confusion or difficulty staying awake, seek immediate evaluation in the emergency department.
COVID Treatments
Is There a Treatment for COVID-19 Infection?
There are FDA-approved antiviral treatments available by prescription. They are most effective when started within five days of symptom onset.
Consult with your health care provider to be tested if you develop symptoms.
There are several COVID-19 treatment options available for people who have tested positive, are experiencing symptoms, and are at high risk for severe disease, including hospitalization and death:
- Paxlovid is authorized for use in adults and adolescents with mild to moderate symptoms. It must be started within five days of symptom onset. Tablets are taken orally twice daily for five days at home.
- Veklury is approved for use in adults and pediatric patients with mild to moderate symptoms. It is administered as daily IV infusions for three consecutive days.
- Lagevrio is authorized for adults for whom alternative COVID-19 treatment options approved or authorized by FDA are not accessible or clinically appropriate. It must be started within five days of symptom onset. Capsules are taken orally every 12 hours for five days at home.
Risk Factors for Severe Illness
Seek health care right away for treatment if you have risk factors for severe illness. Risk factors for severe illness include:
- Age over 50 years, with risk increasing substantially as age increases above 65 years
- Being unvaccinated or not being up to date on COVID-19 vaccines
- Specific medical conditions, with risk increasing substantially with presence of multiple medical conditions
- Immunocompromising conditions or use of immunosuppressive medications, such as chemotherapy