There have been doubts about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome being linked to viruses, and a new study definitively establishes that there is no connection.
A study conducted by researchers from the National Institutes of Health (NIH, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Columbia University found that their analysis “reveals no evidence” of the presence of the XMRV or pMLV infection [viruses].”
It’s estimated that chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, affects about one million Americans. Mostly occurring in women from 30 to 50, the condition is characterized by “severe, continued tiredness,” even with proper sleep, according to the NIH. Other symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty in concentration, and joint pain without swelling.
Researchers have said that CFS might be caused by theXMRV or pMLV viruses, yet a 2009 study that connected XMRV with CFS was almost immediately discredited, while a study connecting the condition and pMLV showed a more plausible link.
But the latest study, which analyzed blood samples for CFS sufferers with those who didn’t have the condition, showed no presence of either virus.
Experts have advanced other explanations for CFS, including age, stress and genetics.
But there is no cure for the condition, and experts continue to recommend treating underlying causes, such as depression.
The study was published in the journal “mBio.”
