In South Carolina, COVID-19 continues to cause illness, but most cases can be managed with proper diagnosis and treatment. Unlike Influenza (Flu) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which are seasonal, COVID-19 can occur year-round. The Department of Public Health (DPH) advises practicing good infection control measures at all times, including regular handwashing, testing when ill, staying home when sick, and covering your cough.

 

The virus mutates frequently, causing variations in illness severity and symptoms among its strains. COVID-19 symptoms are often non-specific and can mimic other respiratory infections. Only specific tests can confirm a COVID-19 infection, so it’s important to recognize possible symptoms and get tested. Treatments are available for those who test positive. Symptoms typically appear within two to fourteen days after exposure.

 

Symptoms

• Flu-like symptoms: fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue and/or cough

• Respiratory symptoms: shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, runny or congested nose, and/or sore throat

• Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea

• Loss or change in the senses of smell or taste

 

There are FDA-approved antiviral treatments available by prescription. These treatments are most effective when initiated within five days of symptom onset. They are recommended for individuals at high risk of severe disease, which includes the possibility of hospitalization and death.

 

Treatment

• Paxlovid is authorized for use in adults and adolescents with mild to moderate symptoms. It must be started within five days of symptom onset. Tablets are taken orally twice daily for five days at home.

• Veklury is approved for use in adults and pediatric patients with mild to moderate symptoms. It is administered as daily IV infusions for three consecutive days.

• Lagevrio is authorized for adults for whom alternative COVID-19 treatment options approved or authorized by FDA are not accessible or clinically appropriate. It must be started within five days of symptom onset. Capsules are taken orally every 12 hours for five days at home.

 

Seek medical attention if you have risk factors for severe illness.

 

Risk Factors

• Age over 50 years, with risk increasing substantially as age increases above 65 years

• Being unvaccinated or not being up to date on COVID-19 vaccines

• Specific medical conditions, with risk increasing substantially with presence of multiple medical conditions

• Immunocompromising conditions or use of immunosuppressive medications, such as chemotherapy