COVID-19 and Sinus Infection

Coronavirus and a sinus infection can have similar symptoms, such as nasal congestion, fever, and cough. Our Cooper experts have put together a guide to help you differentiate the two.

If you have flu-like symptoms and think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please review our instructions and information on our testing sites.

  • Sinus infection is a condition in which the cavities around the nasal passages become inflamed.
  • COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new virus that causes respiratory illness (like the flu) with symptoms such as a cough, fever, and, in more severe cases, difficulty breathing.
  • You can protect yourself from COVID-19 by washing your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and practicing social distance by avoiding close contact with people who do not live in your household.

COVID-19 vs. Sinus Infection

SYMPTOMS COVID-19 SINUS INFECTION
Fever X X
Cough Dry (no mucus) With mucus
Headache X X
Nasal Congestion X X
Sore Throat X X
Shortness of Breath X In severe cases
Bluish Lips or Face X  
Chills and Aches X  
Loss of Smell and Taste X  
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) X  
Digestive Discomfort X  
Tiredness X  
Chest Pain X  
Nasal Drip   X
Sneezing/Runny Nose   X
Facial Pain   X
Bad Breath   X
Swelling Around the Eyes   X
Neck Stiffness   X
Vision Changes   In severe cases

Can Covid-19 Cause a Sinus Infection?

COVID-19 is a disease that can cause what doctors call a respiratory tract infection. It can affect your upper respiratory tract (sinuses, nose, and throat) or lower respiratory tract (windpipe and lungs). There is no information yet on whether COVID-19 causes sinusitis.

Contact Us

If you have flu-like symptoms and think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, review our instructions and information on our testing sites.

If you believe you have sinusitis, call 856.342.3113 to speak to an expert from our Division of Otolaryngology to discuss your options.