Age 65+: what are the newest COVID symptoms going around right now?

New COVID Symptoms in Adults Age 65+

As SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, so do its symptoms—especially in older adults. If you’re 65 or older, it’s important to know the newest COVID symptoms circulating right now. Early recognition helps you seek prompt care, protect your health, and reduce the risk of complications.

Why Symptoms Are Changing
• New variants (such as XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16 and their descendants) tend to affect the upper respiratory tract more than earlier strains.
• Older immune systems may show less obvious fever but more subtle or atypical signs (e.g., confusion, falls).
• Waning immunity or chronic health conditions can alter symptom patterns and duration.

Core “New COVID Symptoms” in Adults 65+
Based on the latest CDC updates, peer-reviewed reports (e.g., Tenforde & Kim, MMWR 2020), and real‐world clinical observations, here are the symptoms increasingly reported among older adults:

• Runny or Stuffy Nose
– Often the first sign with new variants.
– Can be mistaken for seasonal allergies.

• Sore or Scratchy Throat
– May feel like a mild cold rather than classic “COVID cough.”

• Sneezing
– Uncommon in early pandemic waves but now more frequent.

• Headache
– Ranges from mild pressure to tension‐type pain.

• Muscle Aches and Back Pain
– Generalized soreness or stiffness, sometimes isolated to the lower back.

• Fatigue and Weakness
– May be extreme, lasting several days beyond other symptoms.
– In older adults, even light activity can feel exhausting.

• Gastrointestinal Upset
– Diarrhea, nausea or abdominal cramps are more common with Omicron‐related variants.
– Appetite loss can be pronounced, leading to dehydration risk.

• Night Sweats
– Intense perspiration can wake you from sleep.
– Often under‐recognized but increasingly reported.

• Mild Fever or Chills
– Fevers tend to be lower-grade (< 100.4 °F) in vaccinated seniors.
– Chills may persist even if a thermometer reads “normal.”

Atypical and Older‐Adult–Specific Signs
In addition to the above, watch for:

• New Confusion or Delirium
– Sudden disorientation, memory lapses or “brain fog.”
– May be the only sign of infection in frail elders.

• Falls or Weakness
– Unexplained loss of balance or coordination.
– Generalized muscle weakness that precipitates a fall.

• Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
– Can accelerate frailty and impair recovery.

• Shortness of Breath on Mild Exertion
– Noticeable difficulty catching your breath after walking a few steps or climbing stairs.

• Chest Pain or Tightness
– Pleuritic (sharp) pain when breathing in.
– Should prompt urgent evaluation.

• Worsening of Chronic Conditions
– Unstable blood pressure, blood sugar swings, or heart rhythm changes.
– Flare-ups of COPD, asthma or heart failure.

When to Use a Free, Online Symptom Check for
If you begin to feel unwell, you might consider doing a free, online “symptom check for” https://my.clevelandclinic.org/online-symptom-checker to get personalized guidance on next steps—testing, self-care or medical evaluation.

Red Flags: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Some symptoms require urgent care. If you or someone you care for experiences any of the following, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department:

• Trouble Breathing
• Persistent Chest Pain or Pressure
• New Confusion, Unresponsiveness or Inability to Arouse
• Bluish Lips or Face
• Severe Dehydration (dizziness, scant urine, dry mouth)
• Sudden Weakness or Numbness in Face, Arm or Leg

Testing and Diagnosis
• Rapid Antigen Tests: Widely available, give results in minutes.
• PCR Tests: More sensitive, results in 24–48 hours.
• When to Test: At the first sign of any new COVID symptom, especially if you’re in a high-risk group.
• Repeat Testing: If your first test is negative but symptoms worsen or persist beyond 48 hours.

Self-Care Tips for Milder Cases

1. Rest and Hydration
   – Drink water, broths or electrolyte beverages.
   – Limit activity; allow your body to heal.
2. Symptom Relief
   – Acetaminophen for fever or aches (check interactions if you have chronic conditions).
   – Saline nasal spray for congestion; throat lozenges for sore throat.
3. Nutrition
   – Small, frequent meals; soft, easy-to-swallow foods if appetite is low.
   – Boost calories with smoothies or nutrition shakes.
4. Monitor Closely
   – Keep a symptom diary (temperature, breathing, appetite, mental status).
   – Have a pulse oximeter on hand if possible; seek care if oxygen levels drop below 92%.

Vaccination and Boosters
• Stay up to date with all recommended COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.
• Vaccination reduces severity, hospitalizations and risk of long COVID.
• Discuss with your healthcare provider which vaccine series is right for you.

Preventive Measures
• Masking: Wear a well-fitting mask in crowded, indoor or poorly ventilated spaces.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use a 60%+ alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Ventilation: Open windows or use air purifiers when indoors with others.
• Physical Distancing: Maintain distance from people who are sick.

When to Speak to a Doctor
Even if your symptoms seem mild, older adults should consider contacting their healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms worsen after 3–5 days
• Underlying chronic illness flares up
• You have questions about COVID treatments (antivirals, monoclonal antibodies)
• You need advice on safely isolating at home

Never hesitate to speak to a doctor about anything that could be life-threatening or serious. Early medical evaluation and treatment can make a critical difference.

Staying Informed and Prepared
• Monitor local COVID trends through your health department or CDC website.
• Keep an updated supply of masks, testing kits and fever-reducing medications.
• Identify a support network—family, friends or caregivers—to check in on you if you fall ill.

Conclusion
New COVID symptoms are emerging as the virus evolves, and they may present differently in seniors. Awareness of both typical and atypical signs—along with prompt testing, self-care, and medical consultation—can help you navigate infection safely. If you ever feel that your symptoms are severe or life-threatening, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department immediately, and always speak to a doctor for personalized advice.