What does sore throat feel like with COVID-19?

Throat discomfort may appear with cough, feverishness, tiredness, headache, blocked nose or changes in taste or smell. Some people have only mild throat irritation, while others describe a sharper pain or a dry, inflamed feeling. The sensation cannot confirm COVID-19 because several respiratory illnesses overlap. Testing and the timing of symptoms may help a healthcare professional advise you.

Rest, drink enough to keep your urine pale, and use warm or cool fluids depending on which feels better. Soft foods can reduce friction while swallowing. Reduce close contact with others while you have respiratory symptoms and follow current local public-health advice about testing and staying home. A pharmacist can help you choose symptom relief that fits your medicines, pregnancy status and medical history.

Get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, blue or grey lips, or inability to swallow fluids. Contact a clinician promptly if you are becoming dehydrated, symptoms are rapidly worsening, or you have a condition that increases the risk of severe respiratory illness. Do not wait for throat pain alone to become extreme before seeking advice.

Should I test for COVID-19, and when should I repeat advice if the first result is unclear? How can I protect people at home? Which treatments are safe with my current medicines?