Almost a full year later, and we’re all still feeling the effects of COVID-19. While the symptoms of the coronavirus are tough to predict, there are a few that are more commonly experienced than others.
Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland shares some helpful information.
Which Symptoms Show Up First?
Experts say that a fever is the most common, initial symptom of the virus. Also, according to recent research from the University of Southern California (USC), cough, muscle pain, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea are symptoms that make themselves known early.
If you experience a fever or any of the below-mentioned symptoms, it’s vital to schedule a COVID-19 test at our AFC center ASAP.
Common COVID-19 Symptoms
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
How Do I Know That It’s Not the Flu?
USC’s recent studies showed that the flu’s most common, early symptom is a cough, while a fever is usually the first COVID-19 symptom. Although flu and COVID-19 symptoms look similar, the two respiratory illnesses are caused by two totally different viruses.
If you experience any of the previously mentioned symptoms, schedule a COVID-19 test first. Because there is no widely available vaccine for the coronavirus yet, it’s important to do your part to rule it out before getting a flu test.
More Ways to Stay Healthy This Winter
- Wear a mask in public.
- Remain six feet apart from others outside the home.
- Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Feeling under the weather? Don’t wait to visit our team at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland! We’re here for you now and always, so feel free to call or visit us if you have any general health concerns.
