The information below was initially shared on January 9, 2026. In November, researchers at the University of East Anglia announced a blood test that diagnoses ME/CFS with 96% accuracy . Let that sink in! For years, many of you have been told your illness is "all in your head." This test proves what you already knew: ME/CFS has a clear biological signature. It's measurable. It's real.   "For the first time, we have a simple blood test that can reliably identify ME/CFS — potent

The information below was initiallly shared on November 11, 2025. Long COVID : Scientists have identified the first potential biomarker for Long COVID by detecting SARS-CoV-2 protein fragments in tiny cellular packages in the blood of affected patients Theanalyticalscientist ScienceDaily . Researchers in Japan have also discovered that Long COVID brain fog is connected to measurable changes in AMPA receptors in the brain, and their imaging technique can distinguish Long COVID

The information below was initially distributed on October 10, 2025. Today is a significant day. After months of work and 1,045 of you courageously sharing your experiences, we're releasing the BC ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, Lyme & Long COVID Survey results. The numbers are both shocking and deeply validating.   You Are Not Alone. You Are Not Imagining This. 93% of you had negative healthcare experiences. Read that again. This isn't a few "difficult" patients. This isn't an isolate

The following information was initially distributed on June 10, 2025. When people talk about "Long COVID," they're often referring to very different conditions. We want to help you understand that Long COVID actually represents three distinct outcomes of COVID-19 infection—and knowing the difference can be crucial for getting the right care and support.   The Three Types of Long COVID   1. Organ and Tissue Damage: COVID-19 can cause lasting physical damage to organs like th

The following information was originally shared on March 13, 2025. Five years into the COVID-19 pandemic, millions continue to grapple with Long COVID and ME/CFS—conditions plagued by misinformation that perpetuates stigma and inadequate care. In this double-feature installment of our Dispelling Myths series, we tackle two critical fronts: the biological roots of these illnesses and the dangers of outdated treatments. From viral triggers to harmful therapies, let’s separate f

Professional Education & Clinical Practice Tools Policy Brief - Community Edition

Heat doesn't just make you uncomfortable when you're living with chronic illness - it can trigger significant symptom flares that feel overwhelming and unpredictable. Understanding why this happens and having a plan for managing heat-triggered symptoms can be the difference between a challenging day and a medical emergency. Why Heat Triggers Symptom Flares When you have ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, or Long COVID, your body's ability to regulate temperature is often compromised. This

Energy conservation isn't just helpful during summer with chronic illness - it's essential. When you're living with ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, or Long COVID, heat doesn't just make you uncomfortable; it fundamentally changes how much energy you have available for everything else. Introducing Our "Navigating Summer" Toolkit Today marks a significant milestone - the official launch of our comprehensive "Navigating Summer" toolkit. This 42-page resource represents a community minded

When people talk about "Long-COVID," they're often referring to very different experiences. At the ME|FM Society of BC, we believe it's crucial to understand that Long-COVID isn't one condition—it represents three distinct outcomes of COVID-19 infection. While our society specifically supports those experiencing the post-viral ME type of Long-COVID, understanding all three types can help you better communicate with healthcare providers and access appropriate care. The Three T

Living with ME, FM, or Long-COVID can feel isolating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. At the ME|FM Society of BC, we know that building a strong support network and accessing respite care are essential for managing these complex conditions. What Does a Support Network Look Like? Your support network is unique to you and might include: Family and friends who understand your condition Others living with ME, FM, or Long-COVID Healthcare providers familiar with

At the ME|FM Society of BC, we know first-hand how challenging it can be to get a diagnosis and receive appropriate care for ME, FM, and Long-COVID. Many people in British Columbia face long delays—often years—before being diagnosed, partly because these illnesses are complex and not always well understood by healthcare providers. This post is designed to help you prepare for medical appointments, communicate effectively with your doctor, and advocate for the care you deserve

Welcome back, myth-busters! In our second installment of the 'Dispelling Myths' campaign, we're diving deeper into the intricate world of ME/CFS and Long-COVID. Today, we're tackling two prevalent misconceptions that often leave patients feeling misunderstood and frustrated. Ever heard someone say, 'If you could do it yesterday, why can't you do it today?' or 'Isn't that just a middle-aged woman's condition?' Buckle up as we challenge these oversimplifications and shed light

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our "Dispelling Myths" campaign, a vital initiative aimed at tackling the misconceptions surrounding ME/CFS and Long-COVID. These conditions affect millions, yet misinformation can lead to stigma, misunderstanding and even harmful treatments. Our goal is to provide evidence-based content and foster a supportive community for those impacted. What You Can Expect: Over the next six weeks, we will publish a series of blog posts, each desi

The Travel Assistance Program (TAP) offers financial relief for BC r esidents traveling for non-emergency medical services not available in their communities. Residents must have MSP enrollment and a referral to an MSP enrolled medical specialist for services outside their community. Key Points: TAP does not cover personal expenses like meals or accommodations. Your travel must not be covered by third party insurance. Before travelling, you will require: a completed TAP form

Guardian columnist George Monbiot says in his opinion piece that "the outdated treatment of ME/CFS patients is a national scandal". Read this compelling article here . Trigger Warning: this article may bring up issues if you have had negative medical experiences.

"I feel like this series is a life-line for people with ME or Long-COVID who are faced with healthcare and social support systems that provide so little access to knowledgeable help and meaningful support." Christina Wiebe Our new educational series, including 12+ helpful, informative modules, is now being sent directly, by email, to people across the province. Information is fact-based, up-to-date, and developed by experts, patients and caregivers. Includes friendly, easy

For an audio version of this article, click on the red SoundCloud arrow. CityNews Vancouver ME/FM Society of BC My MLA and ME program Full article Recently, the ME/FM Society of BC was invited to participate in a local local news story from CityNews Vancouver highlighting the challenge to find care for ME in BC. This news article highlights the challenges that ME patients have in finding a knowledgeable doctor to support their care. The article also highlights the stigma e

For an audio version of this article, click on the red SoundCloud arrow. Introduction and diagnosis Symptom management and referral ME W ebinar for physicians Complex Chronic Diseases Program FAQ page In order to support you with your primary care provider, our website hosts information on Introduction and diagnosis and Symptom management and referral . This information is aimed at health care providers. Our Introduction and Diagnosis page contains links to The National

For an audio recording of this article, click the SoundCloud link arrow. Summary notes of the May 12 webinar Accompanying survey Examining the Unmet Needs of British Columbians living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis On May 12, 2022, in recognition of International ME Awareness Day, the ME|FM Society of BC was pleased to host a virtual event: Sounds Like ME - a community conversation. During the event, Society Co-chair Hilary Robertson provided an update on Society work and

The connection between Long COVID and ME is evolving. In an effort to collect information on this developing topic, there is a new page to our website out today. ME and long covid resources - hosts a collection of published research on ME and Long COVID, collected accounts from researchers and experts, and a series of media pieces covering “long-haulers” developing ME/CFS. Please visit, read and share.