CDC updates COVID-19 symptom list

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its list of COVID-19 symptoms, adding headache, muscle pain, loss of taste or smell, and others.

Author: Lynne Choate

Published: May 4, 2020

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added six symptoms of COVID-19 to its list. The original list of symptoms included only fever, cough and shortness of breath. The six new symptoms are:

  • Chills
  • Repeated shaking with chills
  • Muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • New loss of taste or smell

The CDC also specifies “difficulty breathing” as an alternative to shortness of breath.

“Most of these additional symptoms we have been noticing in our assessments, primarily with our inpatients at Norton Healthcare facilities,” said Paul S. Schulz, M.D., system epidemiologist and infectious diseases specialist with Norton Healthcare.

If you are feeling ill with COVID-19 symptoms, it’s best to isolate yourself at home. Wear a face mask, if available, when around other people. If a face mask isn’t available, improvise with a scarf or bandanna.

It may be possible to spread the coronavirus to other people even if you don’t have strong respiratory symptoms. This is especially important if you’re around people at high risk, such as older adults and those who have serious chronic conditions.

If you decide to seek medical care for suspected coronavirus/COVID-19, please use Norton eCare for a virtual visit with a Norton Healthcare provider from your mobile phone or computer. Sign in to MyNortonChart to get started. If you don’t have a MyNortonChart account, sign up at NortonHealthcare.com/MyNortonChart. Norton eCare providers will screen you and determine the next steps in your treatment, much like an office visit.

If Norton eCare is not an option for you, be sure to call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office, Norton Immediate Care Center, Norton Prompt Care at Walgreens location or emergency room. Tell them about your symptoms and they will help direct you to the appropriate level of care.

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