Dr. Alain Moreau, who directs OMF's Collaborative Research Center in Montreal, and his team have published new findings that may help explain why exertion triggers post-exertional malaise (PEM) in people with ME/CFS. The research centers on irisin, a protein released by muscles during exercise, and its relationship with thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), a protein involved in immune response and wound healing. Comparing 92 people with ME/CFS to 44 sedentary healthy controls, the team

For many people living with ME and Long COVID, one of the hardest parts of the illness isn’t a symptom you can point to on a chart. It’s the silence of a world that has stopped including you, where contact fades, and life can become something you watch from a distance. These illnesses can shrink a person’s world. Post-exertional malaise, profound fatigue, and unpredictable energy strip away work, friendships, family gatherings, hobbies, and community. What’s left for many is

A joint analysis by Risklayer and the ME Research Foundation, updated in April 2026, has put a price tag on what patients, caregivers, and advocates have long known: these are serious, debilitating conditions with massive consequences not just for individuals, but for all of society. What the Report Found The report, which covers the six-year period from 2020 to 2025, concludes that Long COVID and ME cost German society €318.8 billion over six years. In 2025 alone, the combin

Most people have never heard of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. Fewer still understand how many lives it quietly consumes. A closer look at the numbers reveals a disease burden that is not just significant, it is extraordinary. What Is Prevalence, and Why Does It Matter? When researchers talk about disease burden, one of the most fundamental questions they ask is: how many people does this affect? Prevalence is the measure of how many people are currently

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