​COVID JN.1: Common symptoms of COVID and the order in which they appear​

Even though the number of cases is rising and the JN.1 sub-variant has been detected in the country, there is no cause of immediate concern as the majority of those infected are opting for home-based treatment, indicating mild illness, officials have told the media.

Currently, the common COVID symptoms seen in patients are shortness of breath, feeling tired or exhausted, an aching body, headache, sore throat, blocked or runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhea, continuous cough and/ or loss or change to the sense of smell or taste, says Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of critical care & Pulmonology - CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon.

"The way that COVID-19 symptoms show changes significantly from person to person and does not follow a standardised or predictable pattern. This implies that each individual may experience symptoms in a different order following viral exposure. In contrast to some diseases that have a predictable course, COVID-19 presents a wide variety of symptom start patterns, which makes it difficult to pinpoint a defined period of time for symptom development," says Dr. Grover. On the order of the COVID symptoms, a 2020 study is referred the most. As per the study done by the researchers from the University of Southern California (USC) COVID symptoms appear as fever, cough, sore throat, muscle pain, or headache, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea. The study's findings can be referred because there has been no major change in the symptoms of COVID in all these years.

Data from ZOE COVID Symptom Study, which has data on self-reported symptoms in the U.K. collected from individuals through smartphone apps, runny nose was a common symptom during the delta wave, while sore throats and a hoarse voice were reported during the time when BA.4 and BA.5 were dominant strains. During this time, night sweats and insomnia were also commonly seen. In the current COVID infections, signs like fever, cough, fatigue, throat pain, headache, loose motion and breathing issues are reported.

Adhere to COVID safety rules by wearing masks in public spaces, maintaining physical distance of at least six feet, and frequently washing hands with soap and water. Avoid large gatherings, opting for virtual interactions when possible. Stay informed about vaccination opportunities and get vaccinated to protect yourself and others. Monitor for symptoms, and if feeling unwell, seek testing and follow isolation guidelines. Comply with local health regulations, stay updated on travel advisories, and practice respiratory hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes. These collective efforts contribute to breaking the chain of transmission and safeguarding community health.

​​How to know if your cough is due to COVID, flu, cold, or TB​​