COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It first emerged in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, and quickly spread worldwide, becoming a pandemic. COVID-19 affects the respiratory system and can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Some individuals show no symptoms, while others may experience severe illness and even death. In this comprehensive guide prepared by A Life Health Group, we will examine COVID-19 symptoms in detail, the differences according to variants, ways to prevent the disease, and the services offered by A Life Health Group.

COVID-19, which began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and spread globally to become a pandemic, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus, which can cause a wide range of health problems from mild symptoms to fatal outcomes, spreads easily from person to person through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a contagious disease belonging to a broad family of respiratory viruses, specifically caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Although it shows similar symptoms to other respiratory illnesses such as flu and the common cold, it can be much more severe in individuals with chronic conditions. Transmission occurs through small liquid particles released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, sings, or breathes. These particles can vary in size, from respiratory droplets to smaller particles called aerosols that can remain suspended in the air. Following respiratory hygiene rules, particularly coughing or sneezing into a bent elbow, is critical in preventing the spread of the disease. Additionally, staying home when feeling unwell and using a mask helps prevent the virus from spreading to others. Isolation, especially from the onset of symptoms, is one of the most effective methods to control the spread of the disease.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus continuously mutates, leading to the emergence of numerous variants. These variants generally descend from the Omicron variant. Here are some notable and widespread COVID-19 variants:

The Omicron variant is a highly contagious mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, detected toward the end of 2021. Numerous mutations, especially in the spike protein, have led to the rapid spread of this variant and its ability to evade the immune system. Omicron infections generally present with milder symptoms; the most common signs include sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, and headache. However, it can cause more severe outcomes, particularly in unvaccinated individuals and those in high-risk groups. Existing COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide protection against the Omicron variant, although the level of protection is reduced compared to previous variants. Therefore, booster doses and other preventive measures are highly important. Omicron has significantly influenced the course of the pandemic, once again highlighting the virus’s potential for continuous evolution.

The Delta variant (B.1.617.2) is a mutated version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. First detected in October 2020 in India, this variant has proven to be more contagious and to spread more rapidly compared to other variants. The Delta variant quickly became dominant in many countries worldwide, leading to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases.

The Eris variant is a subvariant of Omicron, which causes COVID-19 and is officially designated as EG.5.1. First detected in early 2023, Eris has shown a rapid spread tendency. As a subvariant of Omicron, it shares similar symptoms but stands out due to its increased transmissibility. The most common symptoms of the Eris variant include runny nose, cough, sore throat, fever, and fatigue. While most cases are mild, it continues to pose a risk, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems and the elderly. The World Health Organization (WHO) closely monitors this variant, emphasizing that existing vaccines still provide protection, though booster doses are particularly important for at-risk groups. The spread of the Eris variant reminds us that the virus continues to evolve and caution is necessary.

The Pirola variant is a subvariant of Omicron, specifically referred to as BA.2.86, which causes COVID-19. This variant stands out due to having more mutations than other Omicron subvariants, raising concerns that Pirola may be more transmissible and better able to evade the immune system. Its symptoms generally resemble those of other Omicron variants, with common signs including sore throat, runny nose, cough, fatigue, and headache. However, new mutations in the virus can cause variations in symptoms.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities are closely monitoring the Pirola variant, emphasizing the importance of public health measures. Research is ongoing regarding the effectiveness of existing vaccines against this variant, and booster doses along with other preventive measures remain crucial. The Pirola variant underscores the virus’s continuous evolution and the need for global vigilance.

The Covid-19 XEC variant is a recombinant strain of SARS-CoV-2, derived from the Omicron lineage. First detected in Germany, this variant emerged from the combination of two different Omicron subvariants, specifically KS.1.1 and KP.3.3. Recombinant variants occur when the genetic material of different virus variants merges, creating a new type. This can give the XEC variant unique characteristics, potentially increasing its transmissibility or ability to evade the immune system.

Symptoms of the XEC variant generally resemble those of typical Omicron variants, including cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, and runny nose. However, its recombinant nature may cause some differences in clinical presentation. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities are closely monitoring the XEC variant, studying its spread, potential effects, and vaccine effectiveness. While current COVID-19 vaccines are believed to continue providing protection, its recombinant structure necessitates further research. Booster doses and other protective measures remain particularly important for high-risk individuals. The XEC variant exemplifies the virus’s capacity for evolution and underscores the need for vigilance in global public health.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which can affect various systems of the body, primarily the respiratory tract. Its symptoms may vary from person to person and depending on the virus variant. However, in general, the symptoms of COVID-19 can be listed as follows:

• Fever: Usually above 38°C.
• Cough: Dry cough is common, but productive cough may also occur.
• Fatigue: Weakness and loss of energy.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty in breathing, trouble taking deep breaths.
• Loss of Taste and Smell: Can be observed especially in the early stages of the disease.
• Sore Throat: Generally mild sore throat.
• Runny or Stuffy Nose: Symptoms similar to the common cold.
• Headache: Mild or severe headaches.
• Muscle or Body Aches: Widespread muscle and joint pain.

COVID-19 symptoms can appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. On average, symptoms are seen within 5 days. In some cases, this period may be as short as 2 days, while in others it can extend up to 14 days.

Important Points:

• Incubation Period: The time from exposure to the virus until symptoms begin is called the "incubation period."
• Variability: This period can vary depending on the individual and the virus variant.
• Asymptomatic Cases: Some people may carry the infection without showing any symptoms (asymptomatic).
• Mild Symptoms: Some individuals may show very mild symptoms and may not realize they are infected.

COVID-19 can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are at higher risk for severe complications. These groups can be summarized as follows:

• Elderly Individuals: Especially those aged 65 and above, as a weakened immune system can lead to a more severe course of the disease.

• People with Chronic Diseases:

  • Heart disease

  • Lung disease (COPD, asthma)

  • Diabetes

  • Kidney disease

  • Cancer
    Individuals with chronic illnesses may experience more serious complications from COVID-19.

• People with Weakened Immune Systems:

  • Organ transplant recipients

  • HIV/AIDS patients

  • Individuals using immunosuppressive medications

• Other Risk Groups:

  • Obese individuals

  • Pregnant women

  • Smokers

  • People with hypertension

These groups are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 and increased mortality. Therefore, it is crucial for them to strictly follow preventive measures, get vaccinated, and undergo regular health check-ups.

The diagnosis of coronavirus (COVID-19) is made through the evaluation of symptoms and laboratory tests. The doctor examines the patient's symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste and smell, and evaluates the patient's medical history. The PCR test is the most reliable diagnostic method and uses a swab sample taken from the nose and throat. Antigen tests provide rapid results but are less sensitive and are also performed using a nasal swab. Antibody tests indicate past infection or immunity from vaccination and require a blood sample. Chest X-ray or CT scan is used to assess lung damage, especially in severe cases. Diagnosis should only be made by a healthcare professional, and personal testing kits may not be reliable.

COVID-19 treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease and the patient’s condition. Mild cases are generally treated at home with rest and symptom-relieving medications. Adequate fluid intake and the use of fever reducers are important. Severe cases require hospitalization. Respiratory support such as oxygen therapy and ventilator assistance may be applied. In addition, antiviral drugs and corticosteroids can also be used. Early diagnosis and treatment can positively affect the course of the disease. Vaccines are the most effective method for protection against the disease and play an important role in reducing its severity. Treatment should always begin under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as self-medication can be dangerous.

Various COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and used worldwide, including in Turkey. The most commonly known vaccines are:

• Biontech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Sputnik V, Sinovac (CoronaVac), Turkovac, and Sinopharm.
• These vaccines are produced using different technologies.

Vaccine Technologies:

• Inactivated (killed) virus vaccines: Sinovac and Turkovac are made using this traditional method and can be stored in a refrigerator.
• mRNA vaccines: Biontech and Moderna are developed using mRNA technology.
• Viral vector vaccines: AstraZeneca and Sputnik V use viral vector technology.

Each vaccine has its own advantages and disadvantages, and their effectiveness rates are continuously monitored.

COVID-19 is a disease that spreads rapidly, particularly among people in close contact, through tiny airborne droplets. While most infected individuals show mild symptoms, common complaints include headache, sore throat, fever, shortness of breath, cough, and loss of taste and smell. These symptoms often improve quickly with antiviral medications and rest. However, for older adults and those with chronic health conditions, COVID-19 can lead to severe cases requiring hospitalization and may be fatal when combined with other illnesses.

Keeping COVID-19 vaccination up to date significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, the need for hospital care, and the likelihood of death. In addition to vaccination, proper ventilation, physical distancing, appropriate mask use, and adherence to hygiene rules are critical to preventing the spread of the virus. Antiviral medications can help reduce the impact of viral infection and speed up recovery. While most people recover without long-term effects, some may experience symptoms lasting for months, with prolonged loss of taste and smell being common.

Coronavirus manifests with symptoms such as shortness of breath, severe cough, high fever, loss of taste and smell, diarrhea, fatigue, and intense muscle and body aches, whereas in flu, loss of taste and smell and shortness of breath are much rarer or may not occur at all.

Research results show that the Biontech vaccine is effective both in starting protection after the first dose and in preventing transmission. The quarantine period for people who test positive for COVID-19 is set at 7 days. If symptoms have eased or disappeared after the 7th day, quarantine ends. If a test is taken on the 5th day of illness and the result is negative, isolation can end. There is no quarantine requirement for vaccinated individuals who have been in contact with COVID-19–infected patients; they can take precautions by wearing a mask. For unvaccinated contacts, the quarantine period is also 7 days. Symptoms are monitored, and if any occur, a test is taken on the 5th day; if the result is negative, quarantine ends.

Recovery from coronavirus varies depending on a person’s immunity, age, gender, and underlying conditions, but on average, recovery takes 10–14 days. However, especially in those with chronic underlying diseases, full recovery may take up to 3 months, and in some cases, even up to 6 months.

Immunological and physiological changes in pregnant women make them more susceptible to viral infections. Therefore, it can be said that pregnant women are in a higher risk group for such infections. In previous coronavirus outbreaks (SARS and MERS), cases of miscarriage and stillbirth were reported. However, scientific publications on the current coronavirus (COVID-19) indicate that no coronavirus-related health problems have been observed in newborns of mothers who contracted the infection during pregnancy.

In babies born to COVID-19 positive mothers, adverse outcomes such as preterm birth and related risks for the infant have been identified; however, there is no definitive information on the long-term effects on the child’s health. The viral infection is transmitted from person to person through close contact via droplets or by coughing and sneezing. In a single case series, no virus was detected in the breast milk of a mother with COVID-19 infection. Breastfeeding is recommended for patients who are not taking medication.

To date, mutated variants such as the UK strain, the Brazil strain, and the South Africa strain have been identified. These variants are known to spread 60% more easily. However, there is no data indicating that their mortality rate is higher. If loss of taste and smell occurs after close contact with someone who has or is suspected of having coronavirus, this is known as the most prominent COVID symptom. Severe muscle pain, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue are also among these symptoms. Both vaccinated individuals and those who have previously had coronavirus can become infected with COVID-19 again. They can also contract the variant strain. When antibodies decrease—meaning the patient’s immunity against the virus weakens again—they can catch coronavirus. Studies have shown that patients are protected for at least 3–6 months in 80% of cases. Afterwards, antibodies rapidly decline. However, it is believed that a certain level of protection continues even when antibody levels drop. The mutated COVID-19 virus can reinfect people who have recovered from the disease. Antibodies begin to develop approximately two weeks after vaccination. Before this time, transmission is possible, but because antibodies start forming two weeks after vaccination, the risk of transmission is much lower. When antibody levels begin to decrease, the risk of transmission increases again. The vaccine does not prevent the virus from infecting someone or from being transmitted to another person. It ensures that the disease does not progress severely in the infected person.

In a person with allergies, sneezing is the predominant symptom, accompanied by runny nose and watery eyes. In a symptomatic COVID-19 patient, however, the signs usually include fever, widespread muscle and joint pain, diarrhea, and disturbances in taste and smell rather than these allergy-like symptoms. It should be noted that approximately half of COVID-19 patients experience no symptoms at all — meaning they are asymptomatic — yet they can still transmit the virus to others. COVID-19 is not sexually transmitted, but it can spread through close physical contact during sexual activity. The disease does not cause infertility.

A severe COVID-19 infection can lead to the failure of all organs. In patients with a severe course, it can also specifically cause lung and liver failure. COVID-19 may also cause hair loss.

A severe COVID-19 infection can lead to the failure of all organs. In patients with a severe course, it can also specifically cause lung and liver failure. COVID-19 may also cause hair loss.