COVID-19 symptoms typically last from a few days up to two weeks in mild to moderate cases. Most people feel better within a few days or weeks and make a full recovery within 12 weeks. For mild to moderate illness, symptoms commonly last about 7 to 10 days. However, some people develop long COVID, where symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive issues can persist for weeks, months, or even years after the initial infection. Vaccination can help reduce severity and shorten recovery time but does not eliminate symptom duration entirely. Severe cases or those with underlying health conditions may experience longer symptom periods or complications.
Duration of Typical Symptoms
- Mild to moderate COVID symptoms generally last 7 to 14 days.
- Fever often is the first symptom and mild illness can resolve within two weeks.
- People can be infectious from 48 hours before symptoms appear to about 10 days after.
Long COVID
- Some individuals experience symptoms for 4 weeks or longer after acute infection; this is termed long COVID.
- Symptoms like extreme tiredness, breathlessness, brain fog, and muscle pain are common.
- Long COVID symptoms can last weeks to months or even years in some cases, impacting daily functioning.
Impact of Vaccination
- Vaccinated people who get infected usually have milder symptoms and quicker recoveries.
- Vaccination reduces the risk and severity of long COVID but does not entirely prevent it.
Summary
- Short-term symptoms: 7-14 days for mild to moderate cases.
- Full recovery in most within weeks up to 12 weeks.
- Long COVID affects a subset and can cause prolonged symptoms lasting months or more.
This information is based on recent research and health sources including the WHO, CDC, NHS, and medical studies from 2023 to 2025.