Have you lost your sense of smell? Convinced that your sore throat is something more than seasonal allergies? Do you think you or someone you know may have contracted Covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus? Stay calm. Here’s our guide on what to do next.
Need more info on what’s going on with regards to the disease? Be sure to check out our full coverage of all things Covid-19, especially our Coronavirus FAQ. Go to the CDC’s website to learn any new information coming from the Centers for Disease Control.
Symptoms of Covid-19
The first thing you should do is check to make sure your symptoms match what we know about Covid-19. Many of these symptoms are commonly associated with seasonal colds and the regular flu, both of which are currently in season. There’s also tons of pollen floating around now that it’s springtime.
While many who are infected may exhibit few to no symptoms (especially children), here are the major symptoms of Covid-19, according to the CDC.
Most Common Symptoms
- Dry cough
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
All symptoms should appear 2-14 days after exposure.
Less Common Symptoms
- Sore throat
- Muscle and body aches
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (including diarrhea)
- Temporary loss of taste or smell (Some report this odd symptom as one of the first indicators of the disease.)
- Runny nose (in children)
For more help, try using Apple’s Covid-19 diagnosis tool, which it developed in coordination with the CDC, White House, and FEMA. The CDC also has a Coronavirus Self-Checker tool you can use. These tools will recommend a course of action based on your circumstances. There is also a new Alexa skill from New York University that can answer basic questions about Covid-19.
Symptoms You Should Not Worry About as Much
These symptoms are not commonly associated with Covid-19.
- Runny Nose (except in some children)
- Sneezing
Important Tips for Everyone, Sick or Well
We’re in the middle of a pandemic, so it’s good to protect yourself. It’s also possible you could have Covid-19 already and not show symptoms yet. In any case, follow these basic rules, outlined by the CDC and White House.
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Wash your hands and cover your face when coughing: This probably goes without saying: Please stay extra vigilant about personal hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer is OK to use if you’re unable to wash your hands, but it’s not as effective as soap and water.
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Don’t touch your face: Generally avoid touching your face as mu