What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms of COVID-19 begin up to 14 days after exposure.

Presentation of illness ranges from asymptomatic/ mild symptoms to severe illness and mortality.

The symptoms include:

General symptoms

• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Generalized weakness
• *Usually accompanied by fever

Respiratory symptoms

Gastrointestinal symptoms

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal Pain
• Diarrhea
• *Usually accompanied by fever

Musculoskeletal Symptoms

• Muscle ache
•  Joint pain
• *Usually accompanied by fever

General preventive measures

Wash your hands often with soap, lathering both the front and the back of the hands and fingers for at least 15 to 20 seconds.

If soap is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.

• Avoid close contact with someone who is ill. (Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet, or 1.8 meters)
• Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze and dispose of it properly afterward. If tissue is not available into sneeze in your elbow
• Use a face mask if there is need for outdoor activity
• Disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched
• Sanitation of shoes worn outdoors.
• Washing of clothing worn in areas of public gathering
• Sanitation of commonly used areas within the household especially if there is an ill-contact or in the case of an occupant who works in essential services
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• The general population is advice to stay at home if they are ill. Persons with sickle cell should however seek medical advice even if they have mild symptoms
• Ensure that essential medications are available
• Maintain proper hydration
• Adequate rest
• Routine exercise
• Avoidance of psychological stress