The Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Centre issued a reminder to members of the public that the early stage of COVID-19 infection might involve symptoms that are similar to other respiratory diseases.

People infected with COVID-19 might develop symptoms that range in nature from mild to severe. Early symptoms include: fever, headache, sore throat, dry cough, nasal congestion, running nose, decreased sensation of smell or taste, diarrhoea, muscle soreness or aches, fatigue, and poor appetite.

In some cases, people might have shortness of breath one week after the onset of infection, particularly when engaging in activities. If anyone develops the above-mentioned symptoms, they should immediately wear a protective face mask, seek medical attention, and avoid using public transport. The same advice applies where such symptoms are consecutively found among either family members, colleagues, classmates or friends. Those involved should detail their travel history to the authorities. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, especially after travel outside Macao, or if they have had contact with people visiting the city from outside Macao, should take the above steps.

Anyone thinking they might be at risk of infection from COVID-19 can schedule a free-of-charge nucleic acid test via the website https://app.ssm.gov.mo/mandatoryrnatestbook. Such tests are used for screening purposes. Test results will not be available via the Macao Health Code online system, and cannot be used as proof of health status for the purposes of boundary-crossing journeys.

The Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Centre states that vaccination against COVID-19 is proven to be the most effective measure to reduce risk associated with infection, including the threat of severe illness or death. Vaccination helps each individual and their family.