What should you know about corona coronavirus?

COVID-19 can cause cough, fever, headache, fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell. Symptoms may be mild, but breathing problems and pneumonia can occur. Some people have symptoms without knowing the exact cause, so symptoms alone cannot confirm coronavirus. Recovery varies; ongoing fatigue, concentration problems or other symptoms after the initial infection may fit Long COVID and should be discussed with a clinician.

Rest, drink fluids, and use symptom relief medicines only as suitable for you and according to their instructions. Limit strenuous activity while unwell and follow current local advice about testing, staying home and reducing contact with others. If you have risk factors for serious illness, contact a clinician early because treatment decisions can depend on timing and your health history. Keep a note of fever, breathing, fluids and symptom changes.

Get urgent help for severe breathlessness, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, fainting, blue or grey lips, or difficulty waking. Seek medical advice for worsening symptoms, dehydration, fever that does not settle, or new breathing difficulty. A cough that persists or returns after improvement also merits assessment because pneumonia and other conditions can have similar features.

Do my symptoms need testing or examination? Am I at increased risk of complications? Which medicines are suitable with my existing treatment? How should I monitor breathing and recovery?