COVID Symptoms: What You Need to Know in 2025

As COVID-19 continues to evolve with new variants, understanding its symptoms remains a top priority. Recognizing the early signs of infection helps in taking swift actions — including testing, isolation, and treatment — to protect ourselves and those around us.

What Are the Most Common COVID Symptoms in 2025?

While earlier strains of COVID-19 showed a predictable pattern, newer variants bring slightly varied symptom presentations. However, several core symptoms remain consistent across strains:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Muscle or body aches

• New loss of taste or smell

• Sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Headache

Emerging COVID Symptoms with New Variants

With variants such as Omicron XBB and its sublineages spreading globally, symptoms are shifting. Patients infected with these newer strains frequently report:

• Scratchy throat rather than a severe sore throat

• Mild congestion and runny nose

• Dry or mild cough

• Night sweats

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

These symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus, and some infected individuals may remain asymptomatic yet contagious.

Unusual Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

In addition to common symptoms, doctors are now reporting unusual or lesser-known signs that could indicate a COVID infection:

• Skin rashes or COVID toes: Red, itchy, or purple lesions, particularly on fingers or toes

• Eye redness or conjunctivitis

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

• Brain fog and memory lapses

• Sudden gastrointestinal distress

These manifestations might not always accompany traditional respiratory symptoms, making early detection challenging but crucial.

Long COVID: Symptoms That Linger

Long COVID or post-COVID syndrome refers to symptoms that last weeks or months after the initial infection. According to the World Health Organization, these can include:

• Chronic fatigue

• Shortness of breath

• Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)

• Persistent cough

• Heart palpitations

• Depression or anxiety

• Loss of smell or taste that doesn’t return promptly

These long-term symptoms can affect individuals regardless of the severity of the initial illness.

COVID Symptoms in Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated Individuals

Thanks to widespread vaccination, many fully vaccinated individuals experience milder symptoms, often mistaken for the common cold or allergies. The most frequently reported symptoms in vaccinated people are:

• Runny nose

• Headache

• Sneezing

• Sore throat

• Fatigue

In contrast, unvaccinated individuals are more likely to develop:

• High fever

• Persistent cough

• Severe breathing difficulties

• Extended illness duration

• Hospitalization risks

Vaccines continue to offer strong protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death.

How to Distinguish COVID from Flu or Allergies

COVID-19 shares symptoms with influenza and seasonal allergies, making diagnosis challenging without testing. Here’s a brief comparison:

Testing is the most reliable method to confirm whether symptoms are due to COVID-19.

When Should You Get Tested for COVID?

We recommend testing if you experience any of the following:

• Direct exposure to someone who tested positive

• Symptoms consistent with COVID-19

• Travel to high-risk areas

• Participation in large indoor gatherings

Rapid antigen tests and PCR tests remain the gold standard for detecting active infections.

Managing COVID Symptoms at Home

For most mild-to-moderate cases, especially among vaccinated individuals, home care is sufficient:

• Stay hydrated

• Rest as much as possible

• Take fever-reducing medications (like acetaminophen)

• Use a humidifier to ease breathing

• Monitor oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:

• Difficulty breathing

• Chest pain or pressure

• Confusion

• Inability to wake or stay awake

• Bluish lips or face

How to Prevent the Spread of COVID Symptoms

Even with milder variants, COVID remains highly contagious. Here’s how we can help reduce transmission:

• Wear masks in crowded or indoor settings

• Maintain social distancing where appropriate

• Wash hands frequently

• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol

• Isolate if symptomatic or after a positive test

• Get vaccinated and boosted

FAQs About COVID Symptoms

Are there symptoms unique to specific variants?

Yes. For instance, Omicron often presents with upper respiratory tract symptoms such as sore throat and nasal congestion, whereas Delta was more likely to cause lower respiratory issues and loss of smell or taste.

Can you have COVID without symptoms?

Absolutely. Asymptomatic carriers can still spread the virus to others, making regular testing and preventative measures vital.

How long do COVID symptoms last?

Mild symptoms may resolve in 5–10 days, but some people — especially those with Long COVID — may experience issues for weeks or even months.

Is loss of taste and smell still common?

It’s less common with newer variants but still reported in some cases. Recovery may take weeks or months depending on the individual.

Conclusion

The symptoms of COVID-19 continue to evolve as the virus mutates, but awareness, vigilance, and proactive health behavior can significantly reduce its impact. Early recognition of symptoms  whether typical, mild, or unusual — is key to timely testing, isolation, and treatment.