COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breathes, sings, or talks. The symptoms of COVID-19 can appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus and vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. Understanding the common initial signs of this infection is helpful for recognizing its presence.
Sneezing and COVID-19 Onset
Sneezing can be a symptom of COVID-19, though it was initially considered a rarer symptom. With the emergence of newer variants, such as Omicron, sneezing has become a more common reported symptom, especially in vaccinated individuals who contract the virus. Despite this increase, sneezing is still more typically associated with other respiratory illnesses like the common cold or allergies.
While sneezing can occur with COVID-19, it is often not the first or most prominent symptom for many individuals. Therefore, while its presence does not rule out COVID-19, it is not a definitive indicator of the infection on its own.
Other Early COVID-19 Symptoms
Other symptoms are more commonly observed early in a COVID-19 infection. These include:
- Fever, often defined as 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
- A new, continuous cough, meaning extensive coughing for over an hour or three or more episodes within 24 hours.
- Fatigue or extreme tiredness.
- Sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, or headache.
- Loss or change to sense of taste or smell.
- Muscle or body aches, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Next Steps for Symptom Concerns
If you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to COVID-19, getting tested is advisable, especially if you have been recently exposed to someone with the virus. Rapid antigen tests or PCR tests can confirm the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If you test positive, it is recommended to stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent further spread.
Current guidance suggests staying home until your symptoms have improved and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medication. After returning to normal activities, wear a well-fitting mask indoors around others for 5 to 10 days following symptom onset or a positive test. This helps reduce transmission, especially around those at higher risk for severe illness. If symptoms worsen or become severe, such as experiencing trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, new confusion, or difficulty staying awake, seek immediate medical care by calling emergency services. For those at higher risk of severe illness, discussing antiviral treatment options with a healthcare provider as soon as symptoms begin is important, as these medications are most effective when started within five days of symptom onset.