How common is cough in COVID-19?

COVID-19 can irritate the airways and cause a dry or mucus-producing cough. It may occur with fever, tiredness, sore throat, blocked nose, or changes in smell or taste. Cough can continue while the airways recover, even after other symptoms improve. A cough alone cannot identify its cause, because many infections and non-infectious conditions can produce the same symptom.

Rest, drink fluids, and avoid smoke or other airway irritants. Follow local advice about testing and reducing close contact when you have a new cough or other infection symptoms. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable symptom relief, particularly if you are pregnant, have a long-term condition, or take regular medicines. Keep a record of worsening breathlessness, chest discomfort, or difficulty drinking.

Seek urgent medical help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, or inability to stay awake. Arrange medical advice promptly if breathing becomes harder, chest pain develops, you cannot keep fluids down, or your symptoms are worsening rather than settling. People with conditions that affect the heart, lungs, or immune system may need earlier assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit COVID-19 or another cause, whether testing is appropriate, and which treatments are safe with your existing medicines. You can also ask how to monitor breathing at home and when a lingering cough should be reviewed.