Loss of taste during COVID-19

Taste loss may appear with other respiratory symptoms or on its own. Smell and taste interact closely, so a reduced sense of smell can make food seem flavourless even when the tongue detects some tastes. Symptoms can vary between people and across infections. A cold, nasal congestion, medicines, oral problems, or another cause can produce a similar experience. The symptom is a presentation of COVID-19 in some people; it does not show how severe the infection is.

Follow current local advice about testing, staying home, and limiting close contact when you have possible respiratory infection. Record when taste changed, whether smell changed too, and any fever, cough, sore throat, or breathing symptoms. Drink regularly, keep up oral hygiene, and choose safe, nourishing foods while flavour is reduced. Avoid spoiled food by checking dates and asking someone you trust to assess odour if needed. Do not stop prescribed medicines without professional advice.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or blue or grey lips or skin. Contact a clinician if symptoms worsen, drinking becomes difficult, or taste and smell remain changed after the acute illness has settled. Assessment is also appropriate when the change is sudden without other infection symptoms or follows a head injury.

Should I test or repeat a test based on my symptoms and timing? Could congestion or another cause be contributing? What warning signs should I watch for? When should persistent taste change be assessed?