Can coughing up yellow phlegm be a sign of COVID-19?

COVID-19 usually refers to infection with the novel coronavirus. Coughing up yellow phlegm may be caused by a novel coronavirus infection, but not all cases of coughing up yellow phlegm are due to this virus. The specific cause should be analyzed based on individual circumstances.

1. Yes

If a nucleic acid test returns positive, it may indicate that after being infected with the novel coronavirus, the virus invades the body and releases substantial toxins, leading to decreased resistance and secondary bacterial infections. In such cases, coughing up yellow phlegm is generally due to a novel coronavirus infection.

2. No

If the nucleic acid test result is negative, coughing up yellow phlegm is generally not caused by the novel coronavirus. It could instead result from factors such as catching a chill, excessive fatigue inducing acute pharyngitis, or inhaling irritants leading to acute bronchitis.

When experiencing cough with yellow phlegm, it is recommended to promptly visit the respiratory medicine department at a hospital for proper medical treatment to help control clinical symptoms.