What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Symptoms can be mild or more intense and may develop in different combinations. Some people notice a blocked or Runny Nose, Headache, Muscle Aches, reduced appetite, or unusual tiredness. Loss of Smell or Loss of Taste may occur, although these changes are not present in every illness. Symptoms overlap with colds, influenza, and other infections, so the symptom pattern alone cannot confirm COVID-19. A person can also have an infection without obvious symptoms and still need to follow current local advice about testing and contact with others.

Rest, drink fluids as tolerated, and monitor breathing and general condition. Stay away from close contact with others while unwell and follow current UAE public-health guidance about testing, work, school, and gatherings. Seek medical advice early if you are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or have a long-term condition, because the clinician may consider your risk and timing of symptoms. Keep a note of new symptoms and when they started.

Get emergency help for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or blue, grey, or unusually pale lips or skin. Seek prompt clinical advice if fever persists, dehydration develops, symptoms worsen after initial improvement, or you are unable to manage fluids. New or ongoing symptoms after the infection has settled may need assessment for Long COVID or another cause.

Ask whether testing or an examination is appropriate, how long to limit contact with others, which medicines are safe for you, and which changes should trigger urgent help. Mention pregnancy, long-term conditions, medicines, and the exact timing of symptoms.