In addition to fever, cough, and shortness of breath, official symptoms of COVID-19 now include six additional symptoms:
▪Chills
▪Repeated shaking with chills
▪Muscle pain
▪Headache
▪Sore throat
▪New loss of taste or smell
▪Though not included in the CDC’s currently listing, anecdotally, gastrointestinal presentation of COVID-19 (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and/or abdominal pain) appears frequently enough that it is worth noting, particularly early in the disease course.
Symptoms generally appear within two to fourteen days after exposure. It is important to keep in mind that many of these symptoms are vague and non-specific, meaning that, besides COVID-19, there are myriad reasons why a person might experience them. Alert your primary care provider without delay if you develop fever, a new and persistent cough, shortness of breath, or any combination of the CDC’s newly endorsed symptoms (even if they are mild). While awaiting triage of any new symptoms, everyone should self-quarantine and avoid leaving home.