Does COVID-19 cause nausea and vomiting?

As its name suggests, the novel coronavirus is a previously unknown strain of coronavirus. Although it is a novel coronavirus, it shares certain genetic similarities—or homology—with earlier coronaviruses such as the SARS virus and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus. All belong to the genus *Coronavirus* within the family *Coronaviridae*.

Can nausea and vomiting occur as symptoms of COVID-19?

Some individuals infected with the novel coronavirus may experience symptoms such as nausea, gastric discomfort, or an urge to vomit. However, these symptoms are non-specific—many other conditions can produce similar gastrointestinal manifestations—and therefore cannot serve as definitive diagnostic criteria for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clinically, the vast majority of patients with COVID-19 present primarily with fever, dry cough, and fatigue. A minority may develop additional symptoms including nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sore throat, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Some patients exhibit only mild symptoms, such as low-grade fever or slight fatigue.

Transmission of the novel coronavirus occurs predominantly via respiratory droplets and direct or indirect contact. “Respiratory droplet transmission” refers to the release of tiny particles containing respiratory secretions from an infected individual when coughing or sneezing. If a healthy person inhales these virus-laden droplets, infection may occur.

The above addresses the question: “Can nausea and vomiting occur as symptoms of COVID-19?” We hope this information is helpful to you.