Watch for symptoms of COVID-19 that can appear up to 14 days after being exposed to the virus.
Last updated: December 17, 2020
The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory illnesses including the flu and common cold. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe. Sometimes people with COVID-19 have mild illness, but their symptoms may suddenly worsen in a few days. Research shows that some symptoms are more likely related to COVID-19 than others.
Key symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Loss of sense of smell or taste
- Difficulty breathing
Other symptoms may include:
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Extreme fatigue or tiredness
- Headache
- Body aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
You can find information on
fevers in children here.
Children may show symptoms differently than adults. For example, fatigue may show in children as poor feeding, decreased activity, or changes in behaviour.
If you have any questions contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1.
You should continue to seek care for other medical conditions as needed, even if it’s not related to COVID-19.
- Use the B.C. COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to see if you need to be tested for COVID-19.
- See the BCCDC page on COVID-19 Testing for more information.
- Once you have been tested you should self-isolate while you wait for the test results.
- If your test is negative you should not return to work or school until you are feeling better.
- If you feel unwell and are unsure about your symptoms, contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1.
