Common Signs and Symptoms

In this lesson, the student will learn and later identify the common signs and symptoms of the disease

Signs and symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may appear two to 14 days after exposure. This time after exposure and before having symptoms is called the incubation period. Common signs and symptoms can include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Tiredness
  • Early symptoms of COVID-19 may include a loss of taste or smell.
  • Other symptoms can include:
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Muscle aches
  • Chills
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Headache
  • Chest pain
  • Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash

Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have mild illnesses.

The severity of COVID-19 symptoms can range from very mild to severe. Some people may have only a few symptoms, and some people may have no symptoms at all. Some people may experience worsened symptoms, such as worsened shortness of breath and pneumonia, about a week after symptoms start. A person who is living in the same house as an individual with COVID-19 and who uses the recommended precautions is considered to be at medium level of risk to contract the virus. People who are older have a higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19, and the risk increases with age. People who have existing medical conditions also may have a higher risk of serious illness.