Emergency Warning Signs of COVID-19

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As we head into cold and flu season, it is important to understand the symptoms of COVID-19 and when to seek medical help.

The CDC reminds us to keep an eye on our flu-like symptoms that could be COVID-19. If you or a family member is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Bluish lips or face

Call 9-1-1 or call ahead to your local emergency facility. Make sure to notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.


As a reminder, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

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

This list does not include all possible symptoms. Contact your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Learn more about caring for yourself or others:

For more information or to use the CDC's Coronavirus Self-Checker, click here.

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COVID-19 information pages are no longer updated. 

See the CDC's COVID website for current information and trends.