COVID-19
COVID-19 Symptoms, Testing, Treatments, and Vaccines – What You Need to Know Now.
Symptoms and Tests
Fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle pain, and fatigue are common symptoms, and a loss of taste or smell may also occur. It can be difficult to distinguish it from a cold or the flu based on symptoms alone.
- If testing is needed, you can get a rapid antigen test or PCR test at a nearby hospital or clinic (whether it's free or paid, and the cost varies depending on the medical institution and the target group).
- Self-testing kits are available for purchase at pharmacies, and if your symptoms persist even with a negative result, please consult a doctor.
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Treatment: There are oral medications available.
Most healthy adults recover from colds with symptomatic treatment (fever reducers, hydration, rest).
- Individuals aged 60 or older, those with weakened immune systems, and those with underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory problems may experience more severe symptoms, making early medical attention crucial.
- For high-risk individuals, oral medications (such as Paxlovid) may be prescribed, but they must be started within 5 days of symptom onset to be effective, so do not delay seeking treatment.
- Oral medications can interact with many other drugs, so please inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Vaccines and prevention.
The COVID-19 vaccine is updated annually to match the prevalent variants, and vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups such as those aged 65 or older and individuals with weakened immune systems (high-risk groups are often eligible for free vaccinations).
- Washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, and wearing a mask when experiencing symptoms remain effective preventive measures.
- Resting when you are sick is the most reliable way to protect yourself and those around you.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
When should I go to the hospital?
- When individuals in high-risk groups (elderly, those with underlying conditions, pregnant women) test positive or are suspected of having the infection — within the golden treatment window (5 days).
- If experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or loss of consciousness — go to the emergency room.
- If fever persists for more than 5 days, or improves and then worsens again.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should you rest if you get COVID-19?
While the legal obligation for isolation has been lifted, it is recommended to refrain from attending school or work for 24 hours after symptoms have improved. Please check the specific guidelines of your company or school.
How can you tell the difference between a cold and COVID-19?
It is impossible to distinguish between them based on symptoms alone. If you are in a high-risk group, or if you have family members who are in a high-risk group, it is safer to confirm with a self-testing kit or a hospital test.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 감염병포털 (as of 2026-08-13)· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)
Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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