Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in the Time of COVID19

Several countries and health agencies have now predicted that 60-70% of a country’s population may contract the COVID-19 virus. Here in Germany, that math works out to 56 million infections. In the United States, that’s 228 million infections. In the United Kingdom, that’s 46 million infections.

If you have been downplaying this threat, it’s past time to change your tune.

It is now time to come to terms with the fact that you likely will become sick. It is time to be vigilant, not fearful. For those with chronic fatigue syndrome and ME, the need for vigilance is especially high.

Many who contract the virus will have mild symptoms. However, the term “mild” is vague, and could mean anything from typical flu symptoms to pneumonia. To make matters worse, those with ME/CFS often feel flu-like symptoms as part of the ME/CFS condition itself. Be mindful. Try to differentiate between ME/CFS symptoms and acute viral symptoms that may indicate COVID-19.

ME/CFS Patients be Vigilant

The CDC has released information that those at highest risk of developing severe COVID-19 which may result in hospitalization or death include those over the age of 60. Also at risk include those with the following medical conditions:

• Blood Disorders

• Chronic kidney disease

• Compromised immune system

• Pregnancy (current or recent)

• Endocrine disorders (such as diabetes)

• Metabolic disorders

• Heart disease

• Lung disease

• Neurological conditions

As you can imagine from this list, there is great overlap between ME/CFS and these listed comorbidities. While we cannot know for certain the risk ME/CFS patients face specifically, the patient community should do all it can to mitigate risk and take necessary precautions.

ME/CFS Patients Stay Inside

Depending on the severity of your ME/CFS and the potential exposure you encounter daily, be realistic about your risk of contracting the condition. If you go to work or frequent highly populated areas, as I stated above, you will likely contract the virus. Avoid public spaces as much as possible. If possible, it is best to stay home completely if you have ME/CFS.

Caregivers of those with ME/CFS Stay Inside

Since many of ME/CFS patients are already unemployed or mostly home bound, staying away from public spaces is business as usual. However, also consider your caregivers, spouse, and/or children. The likelihood of bringing the infection home to you is also high. Patients should strongly consider a complete household elective quarantine. By some estimates, this simple step can reduce risk of infection by as much as 60%.

Keep in mind that as many as 48-62% of infections can come from people BEFORE they show symptoms. Plus, if one does get sick and symptoms resolve, infection may still be transmissible.

Steps to Take:

• Be prepared for up to 1 month of self quarantine. This includes all necessary food, personal hygiene products, and cleaning supplies.

• Utilize delivery services such as Amazon Prime to stock up without the madness of stores.

• Ensure all necessary medications are stock piled. Most pharmacies offer delivery or mail order services.

• Frequently disinfect your surfaces, phones, keys, handles, etc. Make your own disinfectant using bleach. A solution of 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water is effective.

• Be prepared (emotionally and practically speaking) if your entire community shuts down. Be over prepared, not under prepared.

• Prepare you and your family if infection does occur and requires hospitalization. Prepare a to-go bag with clothes and necessary hygiene products. Print out a guide for your healthcare provider should you be admitted to hospital.

• If you’re reading this list, I hope you’ve already done steps 1-4.

Keep Calm, Carry On

Now is not the time to change your routines. Do not attempt a new ME/CFS-specific supplement, dietary plan, or fasting protocol. Keep your condition as stable as possible. Avoid activities that may trigger post-exertional malaise.

There is NO evidence that any herbal or vitamin product, or dietary measure can prevent or treat this particular corona virus. Be wary of online profiteers who suggest otherwise. It is irresponsible to market health products in a pandemic. This virus is virulent—meaning it infects indiscriminately and widely. While a robust immune system is always ideal, a ME/CFS patient’s immune system is aberrant, so have no false sense of immunity due to your “healthy diet and lifestyle.”

Most importantly. Avoid social isolation. Stay informed online through trusted media outlets and government agencies. Connect with your family, friends, and community through online platforms. Be patient and calm. If you feel symptoms of fever and muscle aches, call your doctor first to ask for advice. Do not venture out for medical care unless absolutely necessary (e.g. first signs of difficulty breathing).

Be safe. Wash hands. See you on the other side of the pandemic.