5. Conclusion:
This survey gives insight into the symptoms experienced in a UK
population with mild to moderate confirmed COVID-19. We found a high
incidence of both smell and taste disturbances in COVID-19 patients.
This was more common in younger patients and often associated with sore
throats or nasal blockage. This should be considered in triaging
patients especially in elective outpatient clinics and when making staff
isolation recommendations, particularly as countries start to consider
resuming clinical activity. Further studies where patients with new
onset OTDs are tested for COVID-19 will assist to determine the
sensitivity and specificity of self-reported OTDs as a screening tool
for COVID-19.