How long has coronavirus been around?

Coronavirus describes a family of viruses. SARS-CoV-2 is the particular virus that causes COVID-19, the illness associated with the global outbreak that began at the end of 2019. Other coronaviruses cause some common colds and can cause more serious respiratory illnesses. Viruses change over time, so symptoms and the level of illness can differ between people and infections. A past infection does not explain every new cough, fever, or headache.

Follow current local health advice, stay home when you feel unwell, and reduce close contact while symptoms are active. Rest, drink fluids, and monitor how you are feeling. Testing may help guide decisions about contact with others and treatment, especially for people at higher risk of severe illness. Record when symptoms such as cough, fever, fatigue, or feeling generally unwell began so a clinician can advise you more clearly.

Contact a healthcare professional if symptoms are worsening, lasting longer than expected, or you have a condition that raises your risk from infection. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, new confusion, blue or grey lips, or unusual difficulty staying awake. Persistent symptoms after the infection may need assessment for Long COVID or another cause. A cough with breathlessness or chest pain may also require evaluation for pneumonia.

Could my symptoms be COVID-19 or another respiratory infection? Do I need a test or treatment based on my health history? Which warning signs should prompt urgent review?