What are the symptoms of coronavirus or COVID-19?

HONOLULU, Hawaii (HawaiiNewsNow) - Symptoms of the coronavirus are very similar to the flu or other respiratory illnesses, which means a test is required for a definitive diagnosis.

Symptoms of the virus, also known as COVID-19, include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

The CDC says symptoms of coronavirus can appear two to 14 days after exposure. Some patients experience mild symptoms while others have severe respiratory illness.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• Bluish lips or face

Lt. Gov. Josh Green, who is an emergency room doctor, said those who develop symptoms are likely to be tested for the flu first. That’s because the flu is much more common.

But if the flu is so common, why are public health officials so concerned about COVID 19?

There are several reasons:

• The elderly and those with pre-existing conditions are more likely to develop severe symptoms from coronavirus and are at higher risk of death.
• In fact, public health officials estimate that coronavirus is roughly 10 times more deadly than the seasonal flu. The young are at lowest risk of severe symptoms.
• COVID-19 also appears more contagious than the seasonal flu.
• And there’s no vaccine yet to protect the population from the virus.

If you’re sick, officials are asking you to stay home except to seek medical care.

You’re also asked to call ahead before visiting your doctor.

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