Severe symptoms signs for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses (such as flu or RSV) include:
- trouble breathing
- persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- new confusion
- inability to wake or stay awake
- pale, grey, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds depending on skin tone.
A person with any of these severe symptoms needs care right away. Call 911, or call ahead to your local emergency facility to let them know that you are seeking care for someone who may have COVID-19.
Call a provider for any other symptoms that seem severe or concerning to you.
Supporting Links:
CDC Symptoms of COVID-19, when to seek emergency help https://www.cdc.gov/covid/signs-symptoms/index.html#:~:text=Look%20for%20emergency%20warning%20signs,New%20confusionCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (accessed 12/24)
https://www.cdc.gov/covid/signs-symptoms/index.html#:~:text=Look%20for%20emergency%20warning%20signs,New%20confusion
https://www.cdc.gov/covid/signs-symptoms/index.html#:~:text=Look%20for%20emergency%20warning%20signs,New%20confusion
COVID-19: Know When to Go to the ER Emergency Physicians (accessed 12/24)
https://www.emergencyphysicians.org/article/covid19/covid-19-know-when-to-go
https://www.emergencyphysicians.org/article/covid19/covid-19-know-when-to-go
Videos:
W) When Should You Go to the Emergency Room with Flu Symptoms with Dr. Grant hen Should You Go to the Emergency Room with Flu Symptoms with Dr. Grant 34 sec
Blue Cross, Blue Shield Sep 2023
When you need to consider going to the ER or seeking emergency help for influenza (flu).
) When To Go To ER For Flu Or COVID 1 min 42 sec
CBS Texas Feb 2022
When to go to the ER for Flu or COVID.