According to the World Health Organization, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, and tiredness. Some people experience aches and pains, nasal congestion, headache, conjunctivitis or pink eye, sore throat, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell, skin rashes, or discoloration of fingers and toes.

COVID-19 affects people differently. Eighty percent of those who get infected have mild symptoms which go away gradually, while around one out of five people who contract COVID-19 become seriously ill and have difficulty breathing.

There are groups of people who are at higher risk of developing serious illness when they get COVID-19. The elderly, persons with impaired immune systems, and those with pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart and lung issues, diabetes, or cancer are more likely to get severely affected by COVID-19.

However, anyone can catch COVID-19 and get severe symptoms. A lot of COVID-19 positive people regardless of age have experienced fever and cough, shortness of breath, pressure or pain in the chest area, and loss of speech or mobility.

If you are experiencing a slight cough or a mild fever, there is generally no need to seek medical care. It is recommended that you stay at home, self-isolate, and monitor your symptoms.

If you notice your symptoms getting worse, and you are having difficulty breathing or feeling some pain or pressure in your chest area, seek medical care immediately.

It is highly recommended to call your healthcare provider or nearest medical facility before going, in order to help you assess whether you have COVID-19 and what safe steps you can take to get appropriate care.

Source: WHO