How long will COVID last?

Fever, sore throat, cough, headache and body aches may settle first. Fatigue can remain after the main infection has eased, and changes in smell or taste may recover gradually. The pace differs with the person’s health, the infection and any treatment received.

Symptoms that continue after the initial illness do not automatically mean a new infection. Ongoing fatigue, difficulty concentrating, joint pain, low mood, or loss of smell and taste can occur with Long COVID, which is assessed from the pattern and duration of symptoms.

Rest when you need it, drink enough fluid to keep your urine pale, and return to normal activity in small steps. Avoid pushing through marked exhaustion; increase activity only when your body tolerates the current level.

Keep a simple record of symptoms, temperature and activity. Follow local advice about staying away from others while you may be infectious, and ask a clinician whether an early COVID-19 treatment assessment is appropriate if you have factors that increase your risk of severe illness.

Seek urgent help for severe difficulty breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, unusual confusion, or blue-grey lips or face. Arrange prompt medical advice if fever is not settling, breathing is becoming harder, you cannot keep fluids down, or symptoms improve and then clearly worsen.

Book a review if symptoms are interfering with work, sleep or daily tasks after the acute illness, especially when fatigue or concentration problems are not gradually improving.

Ask whether your symptoms fit the expected recovery pattern, whether you need an examination or tests for another cause, and how to pace your return to exercise or work. Mention your first symptom date, any positive test, medicines, and changes in breathing or energy.