What are the most common COVID symptoms in kids right now?

Children and adolescents infected with SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) often have milder illness than adults, but they can still get sick and spread the virus. Understanding the most common COVID symptoms in kids can help parents and caregivers spot infection early and decide when to seek medical advice.

Common COVID Symptoms in Kids
Based on large studies from China (Dong et al., 2020) and systematic reviews (Ludvigsson, 2020), plus up-to-date clinical observations, the most frequent symptoms in children are similar to adults but tend to be less severe:

• Fever
– Low-grade or high fever (≥38°C/100.4°F) is the single most common sign.
– In the Dong et al. cohort of >2,100 children, about 41% had fever at presentation.

• Cough
– Usually dry, but can become productive.
– Occurs in roughly 48% of children studied.

• Nasal congestion or runny nose
– Mimics a common cold.
– Reported in about 20–30% of pediatric cases.

• Sore throat or throat discomfort
– Often described as “scratchy” or “tickly.”

• Fatigue or general malaise
– Kids may seem more tired, clingy or less active than usual.

• Headache
– More common in school-age children and adolescents.

• Gastrointestinal symptoms
– Diarrhea, nausea or vomiting occur in up to 10–20% of cases.
– Less frequent but important to recognize, especially if no fever or cough.

• Loss of taste or smell (anosmia, ageusia)
– Less common than in adults, but increasingly reported, especially in older children.

Less Common but Important Signs
Most kids have mild illness, but a small percentage develop more significant symptoms that need prompt medical attention:

• Fast or labored breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Bluish lips or face (cyanosis)
• Persistent high fever (>39°C/102.2°F) for several days
• Dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urination)
• Severe abdominal pain

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)
A rare but serious complication, usually appearing 2–6 weeks after mild or even asymptomatic COVID infection. Signs include:
• Persistent fever (often >3 days)
• Rash and red eyes
• Swollen hands or feet
• Extreme fatigue, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea
• Low blood pressure or shock

If you notice these symptoms, seek medical care immediately.

How Symptoms May Vary by Age
• Infants and toddlers
– More likely to have non-specific signs like fussiness, feeding difficulty, vomiting or diarrhea.
– May not be able to describe symptoms like headache or loss of smell.

• School-age children
– More likely to report sore throat, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.

• Adolescents
– Symptom pattern closely resembles adults: fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste/smell.

Why Symptoms Differ in Kids
Current research suggests children’s immune systems respond differently to the virus. They may have:
• Fewer ACE2 receptors in their airways (the entry point for the virus)
• A more robust innate immune response
• Frequent exposure to other coronaviruses (common colds), possibly offering partial protection

When to Test and Isolate
If your child has one or more of the main COVID symptoms in kids (fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue), especially if they’ve had close contact with a known case:

1. Arrange a COVID test as soon as possible.
2. Keep your child at home, away from others, until results are back.
3. Follow local public health guidelines on isolation duration.

Free Online Assessment
Not sure if symptoms warrant in-person evaluation? You might consider doing a free, online symptom check for COVID-19 to get guidance on next steps.

Managing Mild Cases at Home
Most children with COVID have mild illness and can be cared for at home:

• Rest and hydration
• Fever reducers/pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen) as directed by a healthcare provider
• Humidified air or saline nasal drops for congestion
• Monitoring for any worsening of symptoms

When to Call or See a Doctor
Contact your pediatrician or seek urgent care if your child develops:
• Difficulty breathing (fast or very labored)
• Persistent high fever not responding to medication
• Signs of dehydration (little or no urine, dry lips, sunken eyes)
• New confusion or lethargy
• Chest pain or pressure
• Blue or grayish skin, lips or nails

Always speak to a doctor about any serious or life-threatening concerns. They can provide personalized advice and decide if further tests or hospital care are needed.

Preventing COVID in Kids
Alongside vaccination (for eligible ages), continue these measures:
• Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water
• Teach proper mask wearing, especially in crowded indoor places
• Keep physical distance from people showing any cold- or flu-like symptoms
• Improve indoor ventilation whenever possible

Key Takeaways
• Common COVID symptoms in kids include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue and headache.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms and loss of taste/smell are less common but still important.
• Most cases are mild, but watch closely for breathing difficulties, dehydration or signs of MIS-C.
• Use a free online symptom checker if you’re uncertain, but always seek medical help for severe or worsening symptoms.
• Speak to a doctor about any serious concerns or life-threatening signs.

Staying informed about the most common COVID symptoms in kids helps you act quickly, keep your child comfortable and prevent further spread. When in doubt, reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.