Headache now most common symptom Time to update list of classic symptoms: Expert LONDON: A leading British scientist has said it is time to update the list of “classic” COVID-19 symptoms, after research found that a headache and sneezing are now among the most common signs of the disease. Prof. Tim Spector is co-founder of the ZOE COVID symptom study, which draws on global contributors to report their symptoms once they test positive for the virus. It is the world’s largest study into the symptoms of COVID-19. Spector said a headache now tops the list of most common symptoms, with 60 percent of people who test positive experiencing one. A runny nose and sore throat are also “going up that list,” he added, and sneezing is now fourth, though it is often confused with hay fever. Of the original “classic” symptoms, only a persistent cough remains in the top five, with fever and loss of smell dropping to ninth and seventh place respectively. These developments, Spector said, mean governments must update their guidance. “We do need a much broader flexible approach to this as the virus changes and the populations change,” he added.