The triad of cough, fever, loss of smell and taste are almost a perfect storm for COVID-19. Persistent cough followed by feverish high temperature are the warning signs. However, if we develop loss of smell and taste too, then chances are moderate to good we caught the coronavirus. And should self-isolate ourselves and seek medical advice right away.
Defining Cough, Fever, Loss of Smell & Taste
1… ‘Cough’ in this instance is something new and continuous. A COVID cough will trouble us for a long time, even an hour. We can have several bouts in 24 hours so it’s more than just a ‘smoker’s cough’.
2… A ‘fever’ is a body temperature above 100 ºF (37.8 ºC). This indicates we have an infection but our body is fighting back. 100 ºF to 101 ºF (37.8 ºC to 38.3 ºC) is the intermediate range. Anything higher than that can be dangerous.
3… If loss of smell and taste, or either develops on top of the above, we may have the virus. Our senses may not work at all, or just not recognize subtle tastes and smells. This may be because the virus receptors in our mouths and noses have hooked the infection.
What Happens if We Don’t Heed These Warning Signs
Cough, fever, loss of smell and taste are just the beginning of the COVID-19 disease. A sense of tiredness or listlessness may follow. However, if we have difficulty breathing we need urgent assistance. Some folk don’t like seeing doctors and taking medication for personal or religious reasons.
That’s their choice, but we don’t believe they have the right to go about infecting other people. At the very least, please wear an approved face mask covering your nose and mouth. That way you could prevent transmission of those tiny, airborne particles to other people.
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Preview Image: When to Wear a Face Covering
