Loss of taste was one of the most recognized signs of COVID-19 early in the pandemic. Yes, losing your sense of taste is still a symptom of COVID-19, though it is less common with newer variants. The symptom remains a recognized indicator of infection, but it is no longer considered a defining symptom for most current strains.
Why Does COVID-19 Affect Taste and Smell?
COVID-19 primarily attacks the respiratory system, but it also affects the cells that support your olfactory neurons. These are the nerve cells in your nose that detect odors. When the virus infects these supporting cells, it causes inflammation and swelling. This disrupts the function of the olfactory neurons.
Most of what people call “taste” is actually smell. Your tongue can detect sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. But the complex flavors of food — like coffee, garlic, or strawberries — come from your sense of smell. When your smell is blocked, food seems bland or tasteless.
This is why most people with COVID-19 who report losing their taste actually have a loss of smell. The two senses are closely linked. The medical term for loss of smell is anosmia. The term for loss of taste is ageusia. True ageusia without any smell loss is rare in COVID-19.
Is Losing Taste Still A Symptom Of Covid With New Variants?
Yes, but it happens less often than it did with the original strain. Early in the pandemic, studies suggested that loss of taste and smell occurred in more than half of infected people. That number has dropped significantly with newer variants.
The Omicron variant and its subvariants are less likely to cause loss of taste or smell. Some research suggests that only about 10-20% of people infected with Omicron experience these symptoms. The exact percentage varies by study and by specific subvariant.
This does not mean the symptom has disappeared. Many people still report losing their sense of taste when they get COVID-19. It just means that if you have a sore throat, cough, or fever without taste loss, it does not rule out COVID-19.
How Does Loss of Taste Compare to Other COVID-19 Symptoms?
Loss of taste and smell were unique early warning signs of COVID-19. Few other respiratory viruses cause this symptom so frequently. That made them valuable diagnostic clues.
With current variants, the most common symptoms look more like a cold or flu. These include:
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Congestion or runny nose
- Headache
- Muscle aches
Loss of taste and smell now ranks lower on the list of common symptoms. However, if you suddenly lose your sense of taste or smell, COVID-19 remains a likely explanation. It is still a symptom that should prompt you to test.
How Long Does COVID-19 Taste Loss Last?
Most people recover their sense of taste within two to four weeks. The recovery usually happens gradually. You might notice that strong flavors return first, like coffee or citrus. Then more subtle flavors come back over time.
Some people experience a distorted sense of taste or smell during recovery. This condition is called parosmia. Foods that should smell pleasant may smell rotten or chemical. This can last for weeks or months after the initial infection.
A smaller group of people have persistent loss of taste or smell lasting many months. Research on long COVID suggests that some individuals still report smell and taste problems a year after infection. The exact percentage of people with long-term symptoms is still being studied, and estimates vary widely.
If your loss of taste lasts more than a few weeks, it is reasonable to mention it to your doctor. There is no proven treatment that speeds up recovery for most people. Time is the main factor.
Can Loss of Taste Be Caused by Something Other Than COVID-19?
Yes. Many conditions can cause loss of taste or smell. COVID-19 is one cause, but not the only one.
Common causes include:
- Other viral infections like colds or the flu
- Allergies and nasal congestion
- Nasal polyps or structural blockages
- Head injuries that damage the olfactory nerves
- Certain medications
- Aging
- Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease
If you have lost your sense of taste, a negative COVID-19 test does not mean the symptom is imaginary. It may point to another cause. If the symptom persists, a doctor can help identify the underlying reason.
Should You Test for COVID-19 If You Lose Your Taste?
Yes. Even though loss of taste is less common now, it is still a strong signal to test. A sudden loss of taste or smell is one of the more specific symptoms associated with COVID-19.
Home antigen tests are widely available and reasonably accurate when used correctly. If you test negative but still have symptoms, test again in 24 to 48 hours. Antigen tests are less sensitive early in the infection.
If you test positive, follow current guidance from the CDC about isolation and treatment. The guidance has changed over time, so check the current recommendations. Some people qualify for antiviral medications like Paxlovid, especially if they are older or have underlying health conditions.
What Should You Do If You Cannot Taste Food?
First, make sure you stay hydrated and eat enough. Losing your taste can reduce your appetite. This can lead to poor nutrition, especially if the symptom lasts for weeks.
Focus on foods with strong textures and temperatures. Crunchy, cold, or spicy foods may be more appealing even when flavor is muted. Adding more salt, spices, or sauces can help, but be careful if you have high blood pressure or other conditions that require dietary limits.
Make sure you check food expiration dates carefully. Without smell and taste, you cannot detect spoiled food. This is a practical safety issue that many people overlook. If you live alone, consider asking someone to help you check perishable items.
There is no proven home remedy that restores taste faster. Some clinicians recommend smell training, which involves sniffing strong scents like rose, lemon, clove, and eucalyptus several times a day. Some studies suggest this may help recovery, but the evidence is not conclusive. It is a low-risk practice that some specialists recommend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is losing taste still a common symptom of COVID-19?
It is less common than it was with earlier variants, but it still occurs. Current estimates suggest that roughly 10-20% of people infected with recent variants experience taste or smell loss.
Can I have COVID-19 without losing my taste?
Yes. Many people with current COVID-19 variants never lose their sense of taste or smell. Most infections now present with symptoms similar to a cold or flu.
How long does it take to get your taste back after COVID-19?
Most people recover within two to four weeks. A smaller number of people experience symptoms for months, and some have long-term changes in how food smells or tastes.
Should I see a doctor if my taste does not come back?
It is reasonable to see a doctor if taste loss lasts more than a few weeks. Persistent loss can have causes other than COVID-19, and a doctor can evaluate those possibilities.
