Patients with a mild clinical presentation may not initially require hospitalization, but clinical signs and symptoms may worsen, with progression to lower respiratory tract disease in the second week of illness. Risk factors for progressing to severe illness may include, but are not limited to, older age and underlying chronic medical conditions (eg, lung disease, moderate to severe asthma, cancer, heart failure, cerebrovascular disease, renal disease, liver disease, diabetes, immunocompromising conditions, and severe obesity).
Emergency medical attention should be sought if the patient develops trouble breathing, persistent pain or chest pressure, new confusion, inability to awaken or to stay awake, or bluish lips or face.
Most patients with confirmed COVID-19 have developed fever1 and/or symptoms of acute respiratory illness (eg, cough, difficulty breathing).
Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 (not an exhaustive list)
The following symptoms may indicate COVID-19:2
- 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
Other reported symptoms have included the following:
- Sputum production
- Malaise
- Respiratory distress