Covid symptoms 2024-Stay updated on COVID-19 this winter. Learn about symptoms, vaccinations, and when to seek medical help. Protect yourself and loved ones with these expert tips.
About four years ago, the coronavirus pandemic dominated our daily lives. Updates on vaccine developments, new variants, and infection rates were routine. Thankfully, with the wide availability of vaccines, COVID-19 no longer requires the same level of constant vigilance. However, health experts agree it remains essential to stay cautious, especially as winter brings increased risks of respiratory illnesses.
COVID-19 in 2024: What’s New?
“The disease has evolved, but it remains serious,” says Dr. Inessa Gendlina, a board-certified infectious disease physician at Montefiore Einstein in New York City. COVID-19 still causes significant symptoms, including high fevers, muscle aches, and respiratory distress. While natural immunity and vaccination have reduced its impact, immunity wanes within three months, particularly in people with underlying conditions.
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Dr. Gendlina emphasizes the importance of staying updated on booster shots. “Updated COVID vaccines, like flu vaccines, are tailored to current variants, providing better protection,” she explains. Despite the benefits, only about 20% of U.S. adults have received the updated COVID vaccine as of late 2024—a stark contrast to the 52% fully vaccinated by August 2021.
Unvaccinated individuals, particularly those with preexisting conditions, remain at higher risk. “They can develop severe illness requiring hospitalization,” Dr. Gendlina warns.
Recognizing COVID-19 Symptoms This Winter
Common symptoms of COVID-19 this season mirror other respiratory illnesses. According to Dr. Rebecca Choudhury, an infectious disease specialist at Mount Sinai, these include:
- Fever and chills
- Headache or body aches
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Cough
Additional symptoms like fatigue, loss of taste and smell, and digestive issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) are also possible, notes Dr. Mary Gover of Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Vaccinated individuals tend to experience milder symptoms compared to those who are unvaccinated, with reduced risks of hospitalization and death.
Differentiating COVID-19 from Other Winter Illnesses
With overlapping symptoms, it can be challenging to distinguish between COVID-19, flu, RSV, and other illnesses. Dr. Choudhury shares that COVID symptoms often feel like “a really bad flu.” Testing is the most reliable way to confirm a diagnosis, as “triple testing” for flu, RSV, and COVID is common during winter.
Physicians may also consider epidemiology and virus prevalence when diagnosing. “If flu cases are surging, a physician might lean towards diagnosing flu in a symptomatic patient,” Dr. Gendlina explains.
When to Seek a COVID Diagnosis
While mild symptoms might not require a doctor’s visit, knowing whether you have COVID-19 matters for both treatment and public health monitoring. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment, reducing symptom severity and preventing complications.
“Home antigen tests are accurate and sensitive, especially for symptomatic individuals,” says Dr. Choudhury. If your test is positive, consult your doctor to determine the best course of action, particularly if you have underlying conditions or severe symptoms.
For mild cases, Dr. Gover advises staying home until fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms improve. Afterward, wear a mask and maintain distance from others for at least five days.
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