What are the first signs of COVID?

Summary: Early signs of COVID-19 include fever, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. Some people may also experience headaches, body aches, or less commonly, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhoea. Spotting these symptoms early enables quick testing, isolation, and medical care, helping reduce the transmission and safeguard public health.  

Since the onset of the pandemic, COVID-19 has shown a wide range of symptoms, making it tricky to identify early on. Spotting initial signs is crucial for preventing its spread and seeking timely care. While symptoms can vary from person to person, some common early indicators often point to the start of a COVID-19 infection. 

What does the very beginning of COVID feel like?

• A mild fever or chills 
• Low energy or fatigue 
• Headache or body aches 
• A dry, scratchy throat 
• Loss of smell or taste 
• Nasal congestion or a runny nose 

What does a mild case of COVID feel like?

• Fatigue  
• Congestion or a runny nose 
• Headache 
• Sore throat 
• Fever or chills 
• Body aches 
• Diarrhoea 

What are the most common signs of COVID?

• Loss of taste or smell 
• Fever or chills 
• Shortness of breath 
• Dry cough 
• Headache 
• Body ache 
• Nasal congestion 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Diarrhoea 

Also read: What are the most common lingering COVID symptoms?

What are the stages of COVID?

1. Incubation phase: Following exposure, symptoms typically emerge within 2 to 14 days—most frequently around day 5. During this interval, a person can be contagious even when they do not exhibit symptoms.
2. Initial infection (mild phase): This phase includes signs such as fever, exhaustion, dry cough, sore throat, headache, and loss of taste or smell. Some individuals may also experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhoea. The majority of cases remain mild and improve with rest and home care.
3. Pulmonary phase (moderate to severe): If the virus extends to the lungs, it may cause shortness of breath and reduced oxygen levels. This phase may necessitate medical intervention, particularly for those at higher risk.
4. Cytokine storm phase (in severe instances): In certain cases, particularly without appropriate treatment, an excessive immune reaction can arise, resulting in intense inflammation, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and complications involving multiple organs. This phase may require care in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Also read: Incubation period of COVID: What you need to know

How do I know if it's COVID or a cold?

Key distinctions:

• COVID-19 frequently presents symptoms less typical of colds, including  fever, fatigue, body aches,shortness of breath, and less commonly now, loss of taste or smell. Furthermore, COVID symptoms often have a longer duration and may develop more gradually. 
• Cold symptoms are generally milder, featuring a runny or congested nose, sneezing, and a sore throat, absent of fever or severe fatigue. 

How long before catching COVID do you get symptoms?

The time between exposure to the virus and the appearance of symptoms is known as the incubation period. This period typically lasts from 2 to 14 days, with most people starting to show symptoms around the fifth day. 

Even if you feel fine during this time, you may still unknowingly spread the virus to others.  

If you have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID, keep an eye out for symptoms over the next two weeks and consider testing around days 3 to 5 after exposure even if you’re feeling well, particularly if you are at risk or close to vulnerable individuals. 

Can COVID start with a sore throat?

When to consult a doctor?

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
• Chest pain or pressure 
• Persistent high fever that doesn’t decrease 
• Confusion or difficulty staying awake 
• Bluish colouration of lips or face 
• Symptoms that intensify after a few days 
• If you belong to a high-risk demographic (e.g., elderly, pregnant, people with chronic health issues, immunocompromised individuals, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.) 

How can telehealth help

1. Telehealth consultations: Patients can connect with qualified doctors to discuss symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, or fatigue. The physician will evaluate the severity, recommend testing, isolation, or treatment, and aid in distinguishing between COVID, flu, or a cold. 
2. Immediate prescriptions: If treatment is necessary, such as COVID antiviral medications or relief for symptoms, the doctor can directly send a prescription to a local pharmacy or organise same-day delivery. 
3. Doctor referrals: For cases that are moderate to severe, the telehealth provider can direct patients to in-person care, chest X-rays, or consultations with specialists if required. 
4. Online medical certificates: Hola Health can provide medical certificates for time off work, school, or isolation documentation under public health guidelines. 

Hola Health’s telehealth service offers a straightforward and trustworthy option for receiving medical advice, prescriptions, and support related to COVID-19, without the need to leave home. 

In summary, early signs of COVID-19 often include fever, fatigue, cough, and loss of smell or taste. Identifying these symptoms early allows for prompt testing, isolation, and care, crucial for protecting yourself and others.