To know if you have COVID-19, watch for a range of symptoms that can appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough (often persistent or new)
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- New loss or change in taste or smell
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
These symptoms can vary in severity from mild to severe and may resemble those of other illnesses like colds or the flu
. The only definitive way to know if you have COVID-19 is to get tested using a rapid antigen test (RAT) or a PCR test. You should test if you have any symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Rapid tests can be done at home, while PCR tests usually require a healthcare visit
. If you test positive or strongly suspect you have COVID-19, stay home, avoid contact with others, and follow local health guidelines. Seek emergency medical help if you experience severe symptoms such as:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- New confusion or inability to stay awake
- Lips or face turning pale, gray, or blue
These signs require immediate emergency care
. In summary, monitor for the symptoms listed, get tested to confirm infection, and seek medical care if symptoms worsen or emergency signs appear.
