Fever is one of the hallmark symptoms of coronavirus, but is it even possible to have COVID without a fever? Let’s dive in!
The most recent Omicron variants, KP.2 and KP.3, reveal a slightly different pattern of symptoms. Unlike the Delta variant, which was dominant in 2020 and 2021, some patients infected with new COVID variants do not present a classic high fever.
In this blog, we’ll provide a quick rundown of the latest updates on the summer wave of COVID-19 in 2024. Additionally, we’ll address one of the most common questions: Can you have an active coronavirus infection without a fever? Is it contagious? When should you seek immediate care?
Keep reading to clear your doubts right away!
The Recent COVID Outbreak In 39 States Of USA – Why The Cases Are Increasing This Summer?
Amidst the sweltering heat and the rising temperatures, COVID cases are unexpectedly rising in the US, creating a challenging situation for residents.
Last week, the CDC reported an increase in COVID-19 cases in emergency care facilities in almost 39 states and territories.
Virologists are also investigating the rising COVID variants that have arisen from the parental strain COVID JN.1 (the Omicron). Dr. Thomas Russo, chief of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, has told NBS news that we are seeing the start of an uptick of infections with new variants: KP.2 and KP.3 and LB.1.
These three variants, also known as FLiRT variants, are the descendants of JN.1, which dominated this winter in the US.
The COVID data tracker of CDC summarizes the two-week data from June 23 to July 6, indicating that the KP3 variant accounted for almost 36.9%, followed by KP2 at 24.4%
Healthcare facilities around the US, including hospitals, private clinics, urgent care centers and lab testing facilities, are actively playing their role and urging the community to stay safe and protect their loved ones.
Dr. Asrar Sheikh, MD at Family Urgent Care, urges the communities in Illinois and Indiana to take precautionary measures and get tested for COVID-19 if they notice any concerning symptoms.
What Are New COVID Symptoms Of Latest FLiRT Variants?
A former medical officer at WHO says that the symptoms of the new COVID variant are very much similar to the previous dominating variants, such as JN.1. Until now, the most common symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Cough
- Loss of taste or smell
- Muscle or body aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever or chills (in some patients)
Although the symptoms may vary from person to person, however, if you notice any of these, do not delay and seek medical advice to control the symptoms in an early phase.
Can You Have COVID Without Fever?
Yes, you can have COVID-19 without fever, especially with the newer variants, says Dr. Asrar Sheikh, MD, at Family Urgent Care.
“Although sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, fatigue and mild cough are some of the most common symptoms of the Omicron variant, the symptoms vary from case to case,” he adds.
Therefore, if you notice a persistent rise in temperature of more than 100.4 F along with other symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell, see a doctor nearby. Even if you don’t have a fever but experience other concerning symptoms, it’s important to get checked for an active coronavirus infection.
Can COVID Spread If You Do Not Have Fever?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health authorities confirm that COVID can spread from person to person even if you don’t have a fever or you’re asymptomatic. Many people with active coronavirus may experience mild or no symptoms at all, but they may still be capable of transmitting the virus.
Therefore, whether you have a fever or not, it is recommended that you follow standard protocols such as maintaining good hygiene, wearing masks, and practicing self-isolation.
How Long Will The New COVID Symptoms Last?
Generally, mild to moderate cases of COVID take almost 10-14 days to resolve completely, whereas severe cases may last up to 6 weeks.
However, the duration of symptoms depends on several factors, such as age, the severity of illness, and any other comorbid condition like diabetes, hypertension, or obesity.
Some people may experience post-COVID symptoms, which is also known as ‘long COVID’. This lasts for almost weeks or months, even after recovering from the initial infection. Some symptoms may include fatigue, body aches and difficulty breathing.
In such cases, speaking with a healthcare professional can help resolve your doubts and confusion regarding your symptoms.
You can even contact our urgent care providers online or visit the clinic if you need any guidance, treatment, or care related to COVID.
When Should You Seek Immediate Care For COVID?
Although mild to moderate symptoms resolve on their own in most people, early treatment can help prevent future complications and help keep you out of the hospital. Therefore, you should seek immediate care if you fall under the following scenarios:
- You came in contact with an infected person and want to get tested.
- You have a fever, chills, sore throat, nausea, body aches or loss of taste or smell.
- You notice concerning symptoms in your kid or an elderly person above 50.
- You have one or more health issues like diabetes, asthma, chronic heart disease, lung or kidney disease along with Covid infection.
- If your COVID symptoms are not improving despite treatment and at-home care.
| Stay alert for the emergency warning signs for COVID that include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, inability to stay awake, worsening cough or fever, and bluish lips or face. Call 911 or a local emergency care facility for immediate care and treatment if someone shows any of these signs. |
Visit Urgent Care Facility For Rapid Tests, Treatment and Counseling on At-Home Care
We get it, dealing with COVID-19 symptoms throws your whole routine off balance. The constant worries about possible health implications add to the mix, making everything feel even more overwhelming and frustrating.
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you through it without facing setbacks or challenges.
If your symptoms have just begun, we offer rapid Covid testing and ensure you get early treatment to prevent further complications.
Whether it is you, your loved one, or your kids, you can count on our empathetic doctors and healthcare professionals to help you receive prompt treatment, care and counseling.
If you can’t visit our clinic physically due to any reason, you can even book an online video or phone consultation with our healthcare professionals and share your concerns related to COVID right away.