Overview

This document provides the KAUST community and service providers with a guide for recognizing the symptoms of the disease and for appropriate follow-up action.

Everyone is encouraged to practice preventive measures (physical distancing, handwashing, respiratory etiquette, etc.) to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone in KAUST. The most prominent symptoms associated with COVID-19 evolve as the virus evolves and it is important to be able to recognize these and take appropriate action.


Early recognition of COVID-19 symptoms is crucial fast detection and to support the drive to reduce the spread. Many of the symptoms for the current dominant variant of COVID-19 are very similar in nature to a common cold and/or the flu. In many cases the symptoms being displayed may not be attributable to a COVID-19 infection and therefore, being responsible by remaining at home and isolated whilst symptomatic will help to avoid potential spread of any of these viruses – COVID-19, flu, common cold.


COVID-19 Symptoms

Currently, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are:

  • fever
  • sore throat
  • dry cough
  • tiredness
  • runny nose / nasal congestion
  • headaches
fever
fever
sore throat
sore throat
dry cough
dry cough
tiredness
tiredness

Additional Symptoms Might Include:

  • breathing problems
  • chills
  • new loss of taste or smell
  • diarrhea
These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. They normally last for around three or four days.

Community Procedures For
Follow-Up On COVID-19 Symptoms

The symptoms are similar to infection with other viruses that are much more common, such as cold and flu viruses. If a person thinks they have developed COVID-19 symptoms and are concerned, they should follow the advice below.

01

For Those With Mild Symptoms (E.G. Mild Fever, Runny Nose, Sore Throat)

  • Stay at home and isolate
  • Remain out of work or class until the symptoms have gone (e.g. fever, runny nose)
  • There is no need to contact KAUST Health for triage or testing
Knotting and Tucking:
Knotting and Tucking:

02

For Those With More Severe Symptoms (E.G. High Persistent Fever, New Cough, Shortness Of Breath) And/Or Who Are A Known Contact Of A Positive Case In The Same Household As A Positive Case

  • Trouble breathing
  • Contact KAUST Health for triage assessment and advice

03

For Severe Or Acute Symptoms Of Emergency Nature As Below, Call 911 (012 808 0911 From Mobile)

Trouble breathing
Trouble breathing
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
New confusion or not able to be woken
New confusion or not able to be woken
Bluish lips face
Bluish lips face