Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

April 13, 2020

Association of chemosensory dysfunction and Covid-19 in patients presenting with influenza-like symptoms

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  • Han et al conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate loss of smell and taste as pathognomonic symptom of COVID-19 using an internet-based platform on adult subjects who underwent testing for Covid-19. Smell and taste loss were reported in 68% and 71% of Covid-19-positive subjects, respectively, compared to 16% and 17% of Covid-19-negative patients. Smell and taste impairment were independently and strongly associated with Covid-19-positivity, whereas sore throat was not. They concluded that loss of taste and smell could be an early indicator of COVID-19.

Han et al. (April 2020). Association of chemosensory dysfunction and Covid-19 in patients presenting with influenza-like symptoms. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32279441