If you have COVID, how long does it last?

Symptoms may begin with fever, sore throat, cough, blocked nose, headache or body aches. Improvement is not always steady: some people feel better, then tire easily when they resume normal activity. The length and intensity of illness depend on factors such as age, general health, vaccination history and the virus variant.

Loss of smell or taste, joint pain, low mood, fatigue and difficulty concentrating can remain after the initial infection. Persistent or returning symptoms should be discussed with a clinician, especially when they interfere with work, sleep or everyday tasks.

Rest, drink enough to avoid dehydration, and return to activity in small steps as your energy allows. Use medicines only as directed and check labels to avoid taking the same ingredient in multiple products. Reduce close contact while acutely unwell and follow current local guidance.

Keep a simple record of temperature, breathing, activity and symptoms. This can show whether recovery is progressing and gives your clinician useful detail if symptoms persist.

Get urgent help for severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or pale, grey or blue lips or skin. Contact a clinician if symptoms worsen after initial improvement, fever persists, dehydration develops or recovery is not moving forward.

Ask whether your recovery pattern is expected, when to increase activity, and whether another infection or condition could explain ongoing symptoms. If fatigue, concentration problems or low mood continue, ask about a plan for assessment and support.