When COVID-19 symptoms start, the clock is ticking.
Why early action matters
More people are at risk of severe COVID-19 than you might think.
This includes people aged 50 or older and those with certain health conditions like diabetes, depression, and heart conditions.
75%
of adults in the US have at least one risk factor for progression to severe COVID-19.
Source: AM J Prev Cardiol
Learn more about COVID-19 treatment and risk factors.
What happens when COVID-19 turns severe?
Hospitalization, intensive care, ventilator use. Even if your symptoms are mild now, they could get worse quickly and are more likely to progress if you have certain risk factors:
- Being age 50 or older
- Certain health conditions
- Overweight/Obesity
- Certain mental health conditions
- Certain disabilities
The first 5 days matter most.
If you start feeling sick, talk to your doctor right away. For those at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19, prescription medications exist, but you must start within the first 5 days of symptoms.
Watch out for the early signs.
The common cold, flu, and COVID-19 can all look alike. So if you start feeling sick, look out for symptoms like cough, fever, chills, fatigue and body aches, trouble breathing, or a new loss of smell.
Testing and treatments
Need a COVID-19 test?
Order online and have a
test delivered as early as today.
Why early treatment matters.
Prescription medications are available to treat COVID-19 for those at higher risk of severe illness. They must be taken within 5 days of your first symptoms, so contact your doctor as soon as possible to see if treatment may be right for you.
Talk to your doctor
The best next step starts with a conversation.
Schedule an appointment
At the first sign of COVID-19 symptoms, contact your doctor. If you don't have a doctor, you can schedule a telehealth appointment.
Prepare for your visit
Write down your symptoms, health conditions, and all medications you're taking in the doctor discussion guide. Don't forget even small details can be important.
Ask about treatment and eligibility
If you have COVID-19, ask your doctor if prescription medications may be right for you. The sooner you know, the sooner you can take action.
