Covid-19 and post-viral fatigue syndrome (ME Association, 30 April 2020)

Summary

Some degree of post-viral fatigue (PVF) or debility is a fairly common occurrence after any type of viral infection.Fortunately, in most cases, this is short lived and there is a steady return to normal health over a period of a few weeks.However, in some cases, a full return to normal health takes months rather than weeks.Additional symptoms may also develop, where the term post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS) may be a more appropriate diagnosis.

The situation with persisting fatigue following COVID-19 infection appears to be rather more complicated than what happens with other viral illnesses.

Content

The ME Association has produced a leaflet which includes guidance on the following:

• what is PVF and PVFS?
• what are the symptoms of PVF and PVFS?
• PVFS and possible progression to ME/CFS
• management of PVF and PVFS
• convalescence
• activity management
• mental wellbeing
• nutrition
• sleep
• work and education
• finances
• drug treatments
• when to check with your GP
• research into PVF and PVFS
• further information.