18/03/2020
The signs and symptoms associated with COVID-19 are variable and can mimic many other illnesses. According to the CDC, the following signs and symptoms are associated with COVID-19 at time of illness onset: fever, constant or intermittent (77–98%), cough (46%–82%), myalgia or fatigue (11–52%), and shortness of breath (3-31%). The CDC also noted that while fever was present in only 44% of patients at the time of hospital admission, 89% of patients became febrile during their admission. Other possible symptoms include sore throat, headache, productive cough, nausea, and diarrhea.
The CDC and WHO have been working tirelessly to quickly develop and implement testing for COVID-19. The CDC developed an rRT-PCR test for rapid diagnosis. As of March 13, a total of 81 laboratories in the United States are offering testing. On March 4, the CDC updated its criteria to guide evaluation of persons under investigation for COVID-19. Please visit this post for more detailed information on laboratory testing. In addition to the PCR test, the CDC notes other common laboratory abnormalities found in patients with COVID-19. These include: leukopenia (9–25%), leukocytosis (24–30%), lymphopenia (63%), elevated alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels (37%), thrombocytopenia (36%), and leukopenia (34%).
For all new and updating information concerning the COVID-19 global pandemic, refer to the AccessMedicine COVID-19 Central channel (and "watch" the channel to receive alerts when new and updating information arrives).
Go to the profile of Julie Grishaw, ACNP
Julie Grishaw, ACNP
Senior Editor, McGraw-Hill Education