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EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
Governor

Health and Human Services Agency
California Department of Public Health


AFL 20-51
May 9, 2020


TO:
All Facilities

SUBJECT:
Updated Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Symptoms



All Facilities Letter (AFL) Summary

This AFL notifies health facilities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) update on COVID-19 symptoms. Health facilities should ensure their screening process and policies and procedures reflect the updated symptoms.

ā€‹The CDC has updated the list of COVID-19 symptoms to include a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

SymptomsEmergency Warning Signs*
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Muscle pain
  • Sore throat
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face

 

*If you have any of the emergency warning signs above, get medical attention immediately

 

This list is not all inclusive. Individuals should consult their medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

Healthcare facilities should update their screening process to reflect the updated COVID-19 symptoms.

If you have any questions about infection prevention and control of COVID-19, please contact the CDPH Healthcare-Associated Infections Program via email at HAIProgram@cdph.ca.gov or novelvirus@cdph.ca.gov.

 

Sincerely,

Original signed by Heidi W. Steinecker

Heidi W. Steinecker
Deputy Director

 

Resources:

CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus

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