When the body encounters a pathogen like SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, it initiates a complex immune response to fight the infection. This natural defense mechanism frequently results in changes to the body’s normal temperature regulation, which can manifest as various forms of shaking. Understanding this physical reaction is important for recognizing and managing the initial stages of the illness. This symptom, while often distressing, is a sign that the body’s internal systems are actively working to combat the invading virus.
Shaking and Rigors as Official COVID-19 Symptoms
Shaking, specifically as chills or repeated shaking with chills, is a recognized symptom associated with COVID-19 infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) added “repeated shaking with chills” to its list of potential symptoms following early patient reports. This confirmation established the link between the viral infection and this distinct physical manifestation. While fever, cough, and shortness of breath were initially the primary symptoms highlighted, a significant number of COVID-19 patients reported experiencing chills and muscle aches. This indicated that the body’s rapid inflammatory response was a prominent feature of the disease. Symptoms like shaking can appear relatively early in the course of the illness, typically within two to fourteen days after exposure to the virus. The presence of shaking, along with other symptoms like headache, muscle pain, or loss of taste or smell, helps medical professionals identify individuals who should consider testing.
Distinguishing Between Chills, Rigors, and Fever-Related Tremors
The sensation of shaking during an illness can be categorized into chills or rigors, which are distinct thermoregulatory responses to infection. Chills represent a subjective feeling of coldness often accompanied by mild shivering, occurring when the body attempts to raise its core temperature. This sensation is a common occurrence with many fevers as the body’s internal thermostat, regulated by the hypothalamus, is reset to a higher target temperature.
Rigors, by contrast, are more intense and represent a severe, uncontrollable episode of violent shaking that is often accompanied by a rapid spike in body temperature. This pronounced shivering is the result of rapid muscle contraction and relaxation, which is the body’s mechanism to generate heat quickly. The trigger for both chills and rigors is the presence of pyrogens, chemicals like cytokines released by the immune system in response to the viral presence. These pyrogens effectively “turn up” the hypothalamic thermostat, initiating the shaking to reach the new, higher set point. Non-fever related tremors are distinct from this process as they are not triggered by the hypothalamic temperature change and are often related to nervous system function or certain medications.
Immediate Steps When Experiencing Shaking
If an individual experiences significant shaking, particularly rigors, and suspects a COVID-19 infection, the first step is to isolate immediately from others in the household. Self-isolation means staying in a separate room and, if possible, using a separate bathroom to avoid spreading the virus. Prompt testing is also highly recommended to confirm the infection, which allows for appropriate monitoring and informed decision-making regarding treatment.
While isolated, monitoring other symptoms is important, especially the presence of difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or new confusion. These are considered emergency warning signs that require immediate medical attention, often by calling emergency services. For supportive care at home, over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, can help manage the fever and reduce discomfort. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is also important, as fever can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating.