The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a whole new vocabulary. We’ve all become more familiar with words like incubation, antibodies, and quarantine, but there’s still plenty of confusing terminology out there. For instance, do you know the difference between pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases of COVID-19? If not, you’re far from alone. Let’s take a closer look at these two terms and how they may apply to you.
Pre-Symptomatic COVID-19
COVID-19 is a viral respiratory infection that’s caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. As is the case with several other viral infections, a person can test positive for COVID-19 before they begin to develop noticeable symptoms. Research shows that SARS-CoV-2 can take between two and 14 days to cause symptoms after contraction. Individuals in this phase are known to have “pre-symptomatic” COVID-19.
Unfortunately, people with pre-symptomatic COVID-19 are thought to be the most contagious and can unknowingly give this illness to others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that SARS-CoV-2 can spread at least 48 hours before noticeable symptoms appear.
Trying to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19 can seem impossible if you don’t even have symptoms and are unaware that you’re sick, but getting vaccinated and being mindful of social distancing guidelines can help slow the spread. It’s also important to promptly get tested and follow quarantine protocols if you’ve been around someone who has received a positive COVID-19 test.
Asymptomatic COVID-19
Asymptomatic COVID-19 is somewhat similar to pre-symptomatic COVID-19, as both of these scenarios involve testing positive without having noticeable symptoms. However, people with asymptomatic COVID-19 never develop symptoms and usually feel perfectly fine throughout the duration of the virus. COVID-19 without symptoms isn’t rare—in fact, several research studies suggest that roughly 30% of cases may be asymptomatic (this rate varies depending on the specific strain of the virus). Research also shows that mild lung damage can occur in asymptomatic patients.
It’s important to remember that asymptomatic individuals can still transmit the disease to others, and those who come into contact with an asymptomatic person should promptly get tested and follow quarantine guidelines until they receive a negative test result.
Where to Find Help
Unsure about your symptoms and need medical attention? To get started, visit a Yale New Haven Health urgent care location.
