People with COVID-19 can experience a range of symptoms. Most people have mild symptoms and are able to recover at home. Some may have severe symptoms that lead to hospitalization or death.
You may have COVID-19 if you have any of these symptoms:
- Cough (new onset or worsening of chronic cough)
- Shortness of breath
- Fever or chills
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
Not everyone with COVID-19 has these symptoms. For many, symptoms are mild, with no fever. Some people may also experience fatigue or gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. You can still spread the virus to others even if you have mild or no symptoms.
Know emergency warning signs of COVID-19
Get medical attention immediately if you experience any of these warning signs*:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to be woken up
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone
*This list does not include all possible symptoms. Please talk with your doctor or health care provider about any other symptoms that are severe or concerning. If you need emergency medical attention, call 911 and tell them you are having COVID-19-like symptoms.
More information can be found at: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 Symptoms webpage.
If you have symptoms of COVID-19
Stay home, separate yourself from others, and get tested, even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. If your test comes back positive, contact your health care provider or a Test to Treat site and learn if available COVID-19 treatments are right for you.These treatments require a prescription. Ask a health clinic if you can be evaluated for COVID-19 treatment, or use DHS’ telehealth service for fast free assessment.
Symptoms lasting more than four weeks
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 more than four weeks after being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, you may be experiencing a post-COVID condition. Visit our page on post-COVID conditions to learn more.
Resources on COVID-19 symptoms
Access materials and resources on symptoms of COVID-19.
Get tested
If you have symptoms, it is time to get tested. Not sure how to get tested? We can help.
