Q: One individual emailed that she contracted COVID-19 about four months ago andseemed to recover, but then went downhill with class symptoms of post-viral fatigue such as exertional malaise, brain fog, and insomnia. “I am concerned about this turning into something chroinc,” she wrote, and wondered what to do abouti it.

A: Studies have shown that 7 to 9% of individuals may have persistent symptoms 12 months after a viral infection,  and 4% may have those symptoms as long as 24 months.  This is usually referred to as “post-viral fatigue syndrome,” but after 6-12 months many experts would consider this “chronic fatigue syndrome.”   The question is what can one do to hasten recovery and avoid long term symptoms?    There are no studies to answer these questions, but based on experience we would make the following recommendations:

• Rest frequently and aggressively, and limit or avoid activities that worsen your symptoms.
• Supplement with a good multivitamin (such as Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. or Clinical Essentials) or use individual vitamins such as Vitamin C 500mg, methyl-cobalamin or cyanocobalamin (B12) 1000 mcg, methyl-folate 400-1000 mcg, and Vitamin D3 2000 to 4000 iu daily.  Optional are CoQ10 100-200mg and turmeric (also known as curcumin) 1000 mg daily.   
• Work with your primary care physician to treat symptoms such as insomnia or pain.

If symptoms persist more than 6 months, consider evaluation and treatment for presumed Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis  (ME/CFS).