Loss of smell tracked as early clue in coronavirus cases

Studies underway in Japan and US to find link, with WHO monitoring reports

Loss of smell, and an ensuing loss of taste, have been reported in coronavirus patients who show few other symptoms. © Reuters

MASAAKI DEMURA, Nikkei staff writer

March 28, 2020 07:20 JST

TOKYO -- Loss of the ability to smell and taste can be an early sign of coronavirus infection, according to a growing number of reports from around the world.

More than two in three confirmed COVID-19 patients in Germany had anosmia -- the inability to smell -- and China, South Korea and Italy have also reported significant numbers of cases, according to a statement by ENT U.K., an organization for ear, nose and throat specialists.