HEALTH

Could You Have COVID? Key Symptoms to Watch in 2025

As the years pass, the hallmark symptoms of COVID-19 remain relatively consistent, even as new variants of SARS-CoV-2 emerge. While the virus has undergone significant evolution, its symptom profile has not transformed as rapidly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), specific symptoms are not reliably tied to particular variants. Even individuals who contract COVID multiple times may experience a different set of symptoms with each infection.

Identifying Your Illness Amid the “Quad-Demic”

This winter brings the simultaneous circulation of COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus, leaving many uncertain about the cause of their symptoms. The only definitive way to determine which illness you have is through testing—a process that has become a familiar part of daily life.

Free, rapid COVID tests—four per household—can still be ordered via COVIDtests.gov. These tests are also available at numerous stores and online. Certain over-the-counter and lab tests can detect multiple infections, such as COVID, influenza A, influenza B, and RSV, using a single sample. Norovirus testing, however, requires professional healthcare evaluation, and no test exists for the common cold.

COVID-19 Trends in the U.S. (2020–2025)

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has transitioned to endemic status and the federal public health emergency ended in May 2023, the virus remains a persistent concern. The U.S. saw another notable surge in cases during the summer of 2024, underscoring the ongoing relevance of monitoring infection rates, emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and fatalities.

Recognizing COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID symptoms can range widely in severity and may vary based on vaccination status, per the CDC. Presently, these are among the most frequently reported symptoms:

Congestion or runny nose
Cough
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Fever or chills
Headache
Muscle or body aches
Nausea or vomiting
New loss of taste or smell
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Sore throat

Less common symptoms include:

Rash or discoloration of fingers and toes
Red or irritated eyes

Symptoms typically appear two to 14 days after exposure. Even asymptomatic individuals can spread the virus, with the contagious period spanning one to two days before and up to 10 days after symptom onset.

Signs Requiring Emergency Attention

Certain symptoms demand urgent medical care. If you or someone in your care experiences the following, seek immediate assistance:

Difficulty staying awake or waking up
Pale, blue, or gray lips, skin, or nails
New confusion
Persistent chest pain or pressure
Trouble breathing

Comparing COVID, Flu, Cold, and RSV

COVID-19 shares symptoms with the flu, common cold, and RSV, making self-diagnosis unreliable. While testing remains the only way to confirm an illness, symptom comparisons can provide initial clues.

Managing COVID Symptoms

For mild symptoms, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can offer relief. However, the CDC advises consulting your healthcare provider promptly after a positive test.

Individuals with conditions such as asthma, obesity, or cancer, or those unvaccinated or behind on vaccinations, face higher risks of severe illness. Prescription antivirals like Paxlovid or Lagevrio may be recommended, but they are most effective within five to seven days of symptom onset.