But physicians say COVID-19 is anything but predictable.

COVID-19 Symptoms vs.

They also had an increased likelihood of developing pneumonia or respiratory failure.

woman being screened for fever

Luis Alvarez / Getty Images

“Were still learningCOVID-19 is keeping us all humble,” he says.

“Its not like the flu or other viral illness we see.”

For this reason, consider staying home and isolating yourself if fever is your first symptom.

But regardless of the order in which your symptoms appear, do not delay testing if you suspect COVID-19.

So symptoms are not the only indictor of whether or not you should get tested.

Thats why we need testing to be at top-notch.

We are way behind, Fagbuyi says.

This phenomenon is known as silent hypoxia.

If you suspect COVID-19, do not delay testing, regardless of the order in which your symptoms appear.

Early identification aids in containing the spread of the virus.

Fagbuyi adds that your primary care provider or local health department should be your first point of contact.

“Not every case requires a trip to the emergency department.”

For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.

doi:10.3389/fpubh.2020.00473

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.COVID-19 Testing Overview.