New COVID-19 Guidelines

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added several new symptoms to its existing list for COVID-19. Original symptoms included fever, cough and shortness of breath but now the following symptoms could also indicate that you may have COVID-19:

• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• New Loss of taste or smell

Symptoms usually appear within two to 14 days after exposure to the virus although some people may show no symptoms or only mild ones. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes may be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19.

If you think you may have COVID-19, call your primary care provider and discuss symptoms before visiting a healthcare facility. You should seek medical attention right away if you have any of the following emergency warning signs: trouble breathing; persistent pain or pressure in your chest; new confusion or inability to arouse; or bluish lips or face. If you have any of these warning signs, call 911 and let the operator know that you think you may have COVID-19.