Sneezing is a common reflex, but its connection to respiratory illnesses has caused confusion during the COVID-19 pandemic. The uncertainty arises when trying to determine if a sneeze signals a simple irritation, an allergy, or an infection like COVID-19. Understanding the context and accompanying signs is part of navigating health concerns in a world still mindful of the virus.
Sneezing as a COVID-19 Symptom
Initially, sneezing was not widely recognized as a primary indicator of COVID-19. As the virus evolved, particularly with variants like Omicron, sneezing became a more frequently reported symptom. The ZOE COVID Study identified sneezing as an increasingly common sign with newer variants, highlighting the changing presentation of the illness over time.
The SARS-CoV-2 virus infects and causes inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, which includes the nasal passages. This irritation of the nasal mucosa can trigger the sneeze reflex as the body attempts to expel the virus and mucus. A protein within the virus can also stimulate sensory neurons in the respiratory passages, leading directly to a sneeze.
It is uncommon for sneezing to be the only symptom of a COVID-19 infection. More often, it appears as part of a cluster of symptoms, including fatigue, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, and fever. Therefore, its presence alongside these other indicators provides a more complete picture of a potential infection.
Distinguishing COVID Sneezing from Colds and Allergies
Telling the difference between sneezing caused by COVID-19, a common cold, or allergies depends on observing the full range of symptoms. While all three can cause sneezing, the accompanying signs often point to the specific cause.
With a COVID-19 infection, sneezing is joined by a wider array of symptoms that affect the whole body. A fever, significant fatigue, body aches, and a headache are common companions to the respiratory signs. A new loss of taste or smell was a telling sign with earlier variants, though it is less common now. The onset of these symptoms can appear between two and fourteen days after exposure to the virus.
In contrast, the common cold almost always features sneezing along with a runny or stuffy nose. While you might feel mildly tired or have a slight headache, the high fever and severe body aches associated with COVID-19 are much less frequent. Cold symptoms tend to be milder and are focused primarily on the nose and throat.
Allergies present a distinct pattern. Sneezing from allergies, often triggered by irritants like pollen or dust, occurs in rapid, successive bursts. This is accompanied by itchy and watery eyes, and an itchy sensation in the nose, ears, or throat. Unlike viral infections, allergies do not cause a fever or body aches, and symptoms will persist as long as you are exposed to the allergen.
What to Do If You’re Sneezing
If you are experiencing new-onset sneezing in combination with other symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, such as fever or fatigue, testing is the most reliable way to know the cause. At-home test kits are widely available and can provide a quick result. Contacting a healthcare professional can also provide guidance on testing and care.
Regardless of the cause, practicing good hygiene is important to prevent spreading germs to others. When you sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your elbow. This action helps contain the respiratory droplets that can carry viruses.
After sneezing, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If you are symptomatic, wearing a mask when around other people can further reduce the risk of transmission. These simple precautions help protect those around you, whether you have a cold, allergies, or COVID-19.