A fever, a temporary rise in body temperature, represents a natural response from the body’s immune system to combat an infection. The brain’s hypothalamus, acting as the body’s thermostat, resets to a higher temperature, creating an environment less favorable for the growth of viruses or bacteria. Fevers are a common symptom reported by individuals infected with COVID-19.
Characteristics of a COVID Fever
A fever associated with COVID-19 is defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Its intensity and duration vary significantly among individuals, ranging from mild to higher fevers.
Typically, a COVID-19 fever resolves within three to four days, with temperature returning to normal. However, in some cases, particularly with more severe illness, a fever can persist for longer than seven days. The pattern of fever can also fluctuate, sometimes subsiding before returning.
Beyond elevated temperature, a COVID-19 fever is often accompanied by other symptoms. These include chills, body aches, headaches, sweating, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and sometimes difficulty breathing.
Distinguishing a COVID Fever from Other Illnesses
Identifying the cause of a fever can be challenging because symptoms of COVID-19 often overlap with those of other common respiratory illnesses like the flu and the common cold. Both COVID-19 and influenza can present with fever, cough, body aches, and headaches, making differentiation based on symptoms alone difficult. Flu symptoms typically appear within one to four days of infection, whereas COVID-19 symptoms can take longer, usually around five days, but ranging from two to fourteen days after exposure.
The common cold, in contrast, tends to cause milder symptoms, such as a runny nose, congestion, and sore throat, and typically less severe body aches or fever. While a low-grade fever can occur with a cold, it is less pronounced than with the flu or COVID-19. A distinguishing symptom for some COVID-19 cases has been a new loss of taste or smell, which is less common with the flu or a cold. Ultimately, due to the similarities in presentation, the only definitive way to confirm whether a fever is caused by COVID-19, influenza, or another virus is through diagnostic testing.
At-Home Management for a COVID Fever
Managing a COVID-19 fever at home involves supportive care to alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective for reducing fever and easing associated body aches or headaches. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided on the medication packaging.
Staying well-hydrated is important, as fever can lead to fluid loss through sweating. Drinking plenty of water, clear broths, or electrolyte-replacement drinks helps prevent dehydration. Adequate rest also supports the body’s immune system in fighting the infection. Wearing light clothing can help regulate body temperature and improve comfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most COVID-19 fevers can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. Adults should seek urgent care if they experience:
- Trouble breathing or severe shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or an inability to wake up or stay awake
- Discoloration, such as pale, gray, or bluish lips, nail beds, or skin (depending on skin tone)
A persistently high fever, especially one exceeding 104°F (40°C), that does not respond to at-home treatments after a few days, or if symptoms worsen, indicates a need to contact a healthcare provider. For infants under three months, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher should prompt a call to the doctor. For children between three and six months, a temperature of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher also warrants medical consultation.