Guide to COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 research is still in the beginning stages and there is much that remains uncertain. This table compares the symptoms of COVID-19 to that of the flu and the common cold. Similar to the flu, the symptoms of COVID-19 may range from mild to severe. Mild cases are defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as those which will not need hospitalization to resolve. The most severe cases may require supplemental oxygen or breathing machines to treat respiratory issues. Familiarize yourself with the differences in symptoms between COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold.
Guide to COVID-19 Symptoms
| SYMPTOMS | COLD | COVID-19 | FLU |
| Incubation Period | 1—3 days | 2—14 days | 1—4 days |
| Symtom Onset | Gradual | Gradual | Abrupt |
| Body Aches & Pains | Slight | Sometimes | Common May be severe |
| Chills | Uncommon | Sometimes | Fairly Common |
| Cough | Mild to moderate | Common | Common May become severe |
| Diarrhea | Rare | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Common | Common Early onset |
| Fatigue & Weakness | Sometimes | Common | Common Usually intense May last 2-3 weeks |
| Fever | Rare | Common High (100 - 102 °F) Fever may last 3-4 days |
Common |
| Headache | Rare | Sometimes May be intense |
Common |
| Loss of Appetite | Sometimes | Sometimes | Common |
| Loss of Taste or Smell | Sometimes | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Nasal Congestion | Common | Somtimes | Sometimes |
| Respiratory Issues | Sometimes | Common | Sometimes |
| Runny Nose | Common | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Shortness of Breath | Rare | Common in serious infections | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Common | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Sore Throat | Common | Sometimes | Sometimes |