List of myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome outbreaks: Difference between revisions

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There have been dozens of documented outbreaks of [[ME]] and [[CFS]] since the 1930s. Many of these outbreaks occurred at institutions for example, hospitals, schools, army bases or convents. The true number of clusters and outbreaks is likely vastly higher.  
There have been dozens of documented [[List of myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome outbreaks|outbreaks]] of [[ME|myalgic encephalomyelitis]] and [[CFS|chronic fatigue syndrome]] since the 1930s. The true number of clusters and outbreaks is likely vastly higher. Many of these outbreaks occurred in institutions like hospitals and schools, and frequently coincided with outbreaks of [[poliomyelitis]].


== History of the name ==
The first recorded outbreak was in [[1934 Los Angeles atypical polio outbreak|1934 in Los Angeles]] and the most recent putative outbreak was in Arizona in 1996.  
 
Before the [[polio]] vaccine, outbreaks were often observed in towns experiencing polio epidemics, hence one of [[ME]]'s earliest names, [[atypical polio]]. It is not known whether there is a relationship between polio outbreaks and ME or if outbreaks of ME were more likely to be reported when public health authorities were already mobilized for an earlier crisis.
 
After the outbreak in [[Akureyri]], Iceland in 1946, the disease came to be called "Akureyri Disease" or [[Icelandic disease]] through much of the 1940s and 1950s. It was named [[Myalgic Encephalomyelitis]] after London's [[Royal Free Hospital outbreak]] in 1955.
 
After the [[1984 Incline Village chronic fatigue syndrome outbreak|Incline Village]] outbreak in Nevada in 1984, the disease came to be called and redefined as [[Chronic Fatigue Syndrome]].


== Outbreaks by decade ==
== Outbreaks by decade ==
=== 1930s ===
=== 1930s ===


==== [[Los Angeles atypical polio outbreak|1934 - Los Angeles, USA]] ====
==== [[1934 Los Angeles atypical polio outbreak|1934 - Los Angeles, US]] ====
Epidemic among personnel at L.A. County Hospital, Ruth Protection Home and throughout California, paralleling poliomyelitis, often diagnosed as atypical poliomyelitis, sometimes including arthropathy.
Epidemic among personnel at L.A. County Hospital, Ruth Protection Home and throughout California, paralleling poliomyelitis, often diagnosed as atypical poliomyelitis, sometimes including arthropathy.<ref name="Gilliam, 1936-38">{{Cite journal | last = Gilliam | first1 = A.G. | authorlink1 = | title = Epidemiological Study Of An Epidemic, Diagnosed As Poliomyelitis, Occurring Among The Personnel Of The Los Angeles County General Hospital During The Summer Of 1934| journal = Public health bulletin, 1936-1938 | volume = | issue = | pages = 231-240| date = 1938 | pmid = | url = http://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015022082260;view=1up;seq=617 }}</ref>


==== [[1936 Fond-du-Lac outbreak|1936 - Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin, USA]] ====
==== [[1936 Fond-du-Lac outbreak|1936 - Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin, US]] ====
An outbreak of "encephalitis" in St. Agnes Convent.
An outbreak of "encephalitis" in St. Agnes Convent.<ref name="Fond-du-Lac">{{citation | last = Armstong|first = Charles A. | title=Report to the Surgeon General, US Public Health Service, of the investigation of an outbreak of "Encephalitis" in the St. Agnes Convent, Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin. | date = 1936}}</ref><ref name="NewYorker1965">{{Cite news | publisher=The New Yorker |volume =41 |issue =Part 6 |page =208 | title = In The Bughouse | date = Nov 19, 1965 | last = Roueché | first = Berton | url = http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1965/11/27/in-the-bughouse }} </ref>


==== [[1937 Erstfeld outbreak|1937 - Erstfeld, Switzerland]] ====
==== [[1937 Erstfeld outbreak|1937 - Erstfeld, Switzerland]] ====
In less than two weeks, 130 soldiers stationed in Erstfeld, Switzerland became ill with a disease that was attributed to "Abortive Poliomyelitis."<ref name="Parish, 1978"/>
In less than two weeks, 130 soldiers stationed in Erstfeld, Switzerland became ill with a disease that was attributed to "[[Abortive poliomyelitis]]."<ref name="Parish, 1978">{{Cite journal | last1 = Parish | first1 = J.G. | authorlink1 = Gordon Parish| title = Early outbreaks of 'epidemic neuromyasthenia'| journal = Postgraduate Medical Journal | volume = 54 | issue = 637 | page = 711-717 | date = November 1978  | pmid = 370810| url = http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/370810}}</ref>


==== [[1937 St. Gallen outbreak|1937 - St. Gallen, Switzerland]] ====
==== [[1937 St. Gallen outbreak|1937 - St. Gallen, Switzerland]] ====
Outbreak in the women's section of a hospital in St Gallen, Switzerland affecting 28 staff and patients. They were diagnosed with "Abortive Poliomyelitis."
Outbreak in the women's section of a hospital in St Gallen, Switzerland affecting 28 staff and patients. They were diagnosed with "Abortive Poliomyelitis."
<ref name="Parish, 1978"/>
<ref name="Parish, 1978" />


==== [[1939 Middlesex outbreak|1939 - Middlesex, England]] ====
==== [[1939 Middlesex outbreak|1939 - Middlesex, England]] ====


Outbreak at Harefield Sanatorium - "Persistent myalgia following sore throat."
Outbreak at Harefield Sanatorium - "Persistent [[myalgia]] following sore throat."<ref name="NewYorker1965" />


==== [[1939 Degersheim outbreak|1939 - Degersheim, St. Gallen, Switzerland]] ====
==== [[1939 Degersheim outbreak|1939 - Degersheim, St. Gallen, Switzerland]] ====
Seventy-three cases of epidemic neuromyasthenia were reported among 800 soldiers stationed in Degersheim, Switzerland.<ref name="Parish, 1978"/>
Seventy-three cases of [[epidemic neuromyasthenia]] were reported among 800 soldiers stationed in Degersheim, Switzerland.<ref name="Parish, 1978" />


=== 1940s ===
=== 1940s ===


==== [[1945 Pennsylvania outbreak|1945 - University Hospital of Pennsylvania, USA]] ====
==== [[1945 Pennsylvania outbreak|1945 - University Hospital of Pennsylvania, US]] ====
Epidemic described as "pleurodynia with prominent neurological symptoms and no demonstrable cause."
Epidemic described as "pleurodynia with prominent [[neurological]] symptoms and no demonstrable cause."


==== [[1946-47 Iceland outbreak|1946-47 - Iceland]] ====
==== [[1946-47 Iceland outbreak|1946-47 - Iceland]] ====
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==== [[Akureyri_outbreak|1948-49 - North Coast Towns, Iceland]] ====
==== [[Akureyri_outbreak|1948-49 - North Coast Towns, Iceland]] ====
"A disease epidemic in Iceland simulating Poliomyelitis" in three separate towns during this time.
"A disease epidemic in Iceland simulating Poliomyelitis" in three separate towns during this time.<ref name="NewYorker1965" />


==== [[1949-53 Adelaide outbreak|1949-1953 - Adelaide, Australia]] ====
==== [[1949-53 Adelaide outbreak|1949-1953 - Adelaide, Australia]] ====
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===1950s===
===1950s===


==== [[1950 Louisville outbreak|1950 - Louisville, Kentucky, USA]] ====
==== [[1950 Louisville outbreak|1950 - Louisville, Kentucky, US]] ====
Outbreak in the Nurse's Training School of St. Joseph Infirmary, later described as "epidemic neuromyasthenia."
Outbreak in the Nurse's Training School of St. Joseph Infirmary, later described as "epidemic neuromyasthenia."


==== [[1950 Upper New York State outbreak|1950 - Upper New York State, USA]] ====
==== [[1950 Upper New York State outbreak|1950 - Upper New York State, US]] ====
Outbreak described as resembling the "Iceland Disease...simulating Acute Anterior Poliomyelitis."
Outbreak described as resembling the "Iceland Disease...simulating Acute Anterior Poliomyelitis."


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Outbreak described as "epidemic myositis."
Outbreak described as "epidemic myositis."


==== [[1952 Florida outbreak|1952 - Lakeland, Florida, USA]] ====
==== [[1952 Florida outbreak|1952 - Lakeland, Florida, US]] ====
Outbreak described as epidemic neuromyasthenia.
Outbreak described as epidemic neuromyasthenia.


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"An illness resembling Poliomyelitis observed in nurses."
"An illness resembling Poliomyelitis observed in nurses."


==== [[1953 Maryland outbreak|1953 - Rockville, Maryland, USA]] ====
==== [[1953 Maryland outbreak|1953 - Rockville, Maryland, US]] ====
Chestnut Lodge Hospital student nurses described with poliomyelitis-like epidemic neuromyasthenia.
Chestnut Lodge Hospital student nurses described with poliomyelitis-like epidemic neuromyasthenia.


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Outbreak of "Epidemic encephalitis with vertigo."
Outbreak of "Epidemic encephalitis with vertigo."


==== [[1954 Florida outbreak|1954 - Tallahassee, Florida, USA]] ====
==== [[1954 Florida outbreak|1954 - Tallahassee, Florida, US]] ====
Bond JO.  A new clinical entity?  Lancet 1956; 2:256.
Bond JO.  A new clinical entity?  Lancet 1956; 2:256.


==== [[1954 Seward outbreak|1954 - Seward, Alaska]] ====
==== [[1954 Seward outbreak|1954 - Seward, Alaska]] ====
Outbreak described as "Benign Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (Iceland Disease)."
Outbreak described as "Benign Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (Iceland Disease)."<ref name="Deisher1957">{{Cite journal |last = Deisher | first = J.B. | date = 1957| title = Benign myalgic encephalomyelitis (Iceland disease) in Alaska|journal =Northwest medicine|volume =56|issue =12|pages = 1451-1456 | url = http://www.hhs.gov/advcomcfs/meetings/presentations/benignmyalgic_pdf.pdf |archive-date=2014-03-24 |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/3919/20140324194903/http://www.hhs.gov/advcomcfs/meetings/presentations/benignmyalgic_pdf.pdf |url-status=dead}}</ref>


==== [[1954 Berlin outbreak|1954 - Berlin, Germany]] ====
==== [[1954 Berlin outbreak|1954 - Berlin, Germany]] ====
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"...an unusual disease seen in epidemic and sporadic form in general practice in 1955 and subsequent years."
"...an unusual disease seen in epidemic and sporadic form in general practice in 1955 and subsequent years."


==== [[Royal Free Hospital outbreak|1955 - London, England]] ====
==== [[1954 Johannesburg outbreak|1954 - Johannesburg]] ====
Famous outbreak of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis among [[Royal Free Hospital]] staff.


==== [[1955 Perth outbreak|1955 - Perth, Australia]] ====
==== [[1955 Perth outbreak|1955 - Perth, Australia]] ====
"Virus epidemic in recurrent waves."
"[[Virus]] epidemic in recurrent waves."


==== [[1955 Wales outbreak|1955 - Gilfach Goch, Wales]] ====
==== [[1955 Wales outbreak|1955 - Gilfach Goch, Wales]] ====
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==== [[1955 Durban outbreak|1955 - Durban and Durban City, South Africa]] ====
==== [[1955 Durban outbreak|1955 - Durban and Durban City, South Africa]] ====
Outbreak among nurses at Addington Hospital called "The Durban Mystery Disease" describing neuromuscular dysfunction, and epidemic myalgic encephalomyelopathy, including sporadic cases in Johannesburg of a outbreak resembling poliomyelitis.
Outbreak among nurses at Addington Hospital called "The Durban Mystery Disease" describing neuromuscular dysfunction, and epidemic myalgic encephalomyelopathy, including sporadic cases in Johannesburg of a outbreak resembling poliomyelitis.
==== 1955 – North of England ====


==== [[1955 Segbwema outbreak|1955-56 - Segbwema, Sierra Leone]] ====
==== [[1955 Segbwema outbreak|1955-56 - Segbwema, Sierra Leone]] ====
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Unusual response to poliomyelitis vaccination.
Unusual response to poliomyelitis vaccination.


==== [[1955 London outbreak|1955-56 - North West London, England]] ====
==== [[1955 Royal Free Hospital outbreak|1955-1957 - Royal Free Hospital outbreak, London, England]] ====
Outbreak of acute infective encephalomyelitis simulating poliomyelitis among a residential home for nurses.
Famous outbreak of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis simulating poliomyelitis, beginning among a residential home for nurses at the [[Royal Free Hospital]].<ref name="Ramsay1957">{{Cite journal |last = Ramsay|first = A.M. | authorlink = Melvin Ramsay | date = 1957| title = Encephalomyelitis in North West London. An Endemic infection simulating Poliomyelitis and Hysteria|journal=Lancet|volume=273|issue=7007|pages=1196-1200 | url = https://www.sciencedirect.com/sdfe/pdf/download/eid/1-s2.0-S0140673657901630/first-page-pdf
|doi=10.1016/s0140-6736(57)90163-0|pmid=13492606}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last = Geffen | first = Dennis | authorlink = | last2 = Tracy | first2 = Susan M. | authorlink2 = | date = 1957-10-19 | title = An Outbreak of Acute Infective Encephalomyelitis in a Residential Home for Nurses in 1956|url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1962504/pdf/brmedj03125-0022.pdf | journal=British Medical Journal|volume=2|issue=5050 | pages = 904–906|doi=10.1136/bmj.2.5050.904|issn=0007-1447|pmc=1962504|pmid=13472003|access-date=|quote=|via=}}</ref>


==== [[1956 Ridgefield outbreak|1956 - Ridgefield, Connecticut, USA]] ====
==== [[1956 Ridgefield outbreak|1956 - Ridgefield, Connecticut, US]] ====
An epidemic of neuromyasthenia.
An epidemic of neuromyasthenia.


==== [[1956 Punta Gorda outbreak|1956 - Punta Gorda, Florida, USA]] ====
==== [[1956 Punta Gorda outbreak|1956 - Punta Gorda, Florida, US]] ====
An outbreak of epidemic neuromyasthenia.
An outbreak of epidemic neuromyasthenia.


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Outbreak described as "lymphocytic meningo-encephalitis with myalgia and rash," "An outbreak of a disease believed to have been cause by Echo 9 virus," with other varying descriptions.
Outbreak described as "lymphocytic meningo-encephalitis with myalgia and rash," "An outbreak of a disease believed to have been cause by Echo 9 virus," with other varying descriptions.


==== [[1956 Massachusetts outbreak|1956 - Pittsfield, Williamstown, Massachusetts, USA]] ====
==== [[1956 Massachusetts outbreak|1956 - Pittsfield, Williamstown, Massachusetts, US]] ====
Outbreak of "epidemic neuromyasthenia" later described as benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.  (Included in this summary are sporadic cases in Hygiea, Sweden, with descriptions of encephalitis, meningitis or poliomyelitis; Coxsackie B and Echo Virus infections; benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.)
Outbreak of "epidemic neuromyasthenia" later described as benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.  (Included in this summary are sporadic cases in Hygiea, Sweden, with descriptions of encephalitis, meningitis or poliomyelitis; [[Coxsackie B]] and [[Echovirus]] infections; benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.)


==== [[1956 Coventry outbreak|1956-57 - Coventry, England]] ====
==== [[1956 Coventry outbreak|1956-57 - Coventry, England]] ====
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Sporadic case of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis described.
Sporadic case of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis described.


==== [[1961 New York State outbreak| 1961-62 - New York State, USA]] ====
==== [[1961 New York State outbreak| 1961-62 - New York State, US]] ====
Outbreak described as epidemic neuromyasthenia in a convent in New York State.
Outbreak described as epidemic neuromyasthenia in a convent in New York State.


==== [[1964 London NW outbreak|1964-66 - N.W. London, England]] ====
==== [[1964 London NW outbreak|1964-66 - N.W. London, England]] ====
Outbreak described as epidemic malaise and epidemic neuromyasthenia.
Outbreak described as epidemic malaise and epidemic neuromyasthenia occurred in North Finchley, a suburb of London, England.


==== [[1964 Franklin outbreak|1964-66 - Franklin, Kentucky, USA]] ====
==== [[1964 Franklin outbreak|1964-66 - Franklin, Kentucky, US]] ====
Outbreak of "neurmyasthenia" in a Kentucky factory, possibly due to mercury exposure.
Outbreak of "neuromyasthenia" in a Kentucky factory, possibly due to [[mercury]] exposure.


==== [[1965 Galveston outbreak|1965-66 - Galveston County, Texas, USA]] ====
==== [[1965 Galveston outbreak|1965-66 - Galveston County, Texas, US]] ====
Outbreak described as "Epidemic Neuromyasthenia Variant?" and "Epidemic Diencephalomyelitis," the latter describing neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular and endocrine disorders.
Outbreak described as "Epidemic Neuromyasthenia Variant?" and "Epidemic Diencephalomyelitis," the latter describing neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular and endocrine disorders.


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Sporadic cases resembling benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.
Sporadic cases resembling benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.


==== [[1968 Fraidek outbreak|1968 - Fraidek, Lebanon]] ====
==== [[1968 Fraidek outbreak|1968 - Fnaidek, Lebanon]] ====
Report on an epidemic of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.
Report on an epidemic of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.


==== [[1969 New York outbreak|1969 - State University of New York, USA]] ====
==== [[1969 New York outbreak|1969 - State University of New York, US]] ====
Medical Centre - report of epidemic Neuromyasthenia and "unidentified symptom complex."
Medical Centre - report of epidemic Neuromyasthenia and "unidentified symptom complex."


===1970s===
===1970s===


==== [[1970 Lackland outbreak| 1970 - Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, USA]] ====
==== [[1970 Lackland outbreak| 1970 - Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, US]] ====
Epidemic Neuromyasthenia reported.  "A syndrome or disease?"
Epidemic Neuromyasthenia reported.  "A syndrome or disease?"


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An outbreak of "epidemic neuromyasthenia" among nurses a the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Oromond Street.
An outbreak of "epidemic neuromyasthenia" among nurses a the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Oromond Street.


==== [[1975 Sacramento outbreak|1975 - Sacramento, California, USA]] ====
==== [[1975 Sacramento outbreak|1975 - Sacramento, California, US]] ====
In 1975, an epidemic started first among the ICU staff and later spread throughout Mercy San Juan Hospital, in Carmichael, a suburb of Sacramento, CA. An estimated 200 people became ill. Dr Ryll, who headed the investigating medical team, called it "Infectious Venulitis" which he later believed to be a variant of [[ME/CFS]].<ref>http://www.ncf-net.org/forum/InfVenulitis-Fall05.htm</ref><ref>http://www.oocities.org/sezar99q/MECFSInfectiousVenulitis.html</ref>
In 1975, an epidemic started first among the ICU staff and later spread throughout Mercy San Juan Hospital, in Carmichael, a suburb of Sacramento, CA. An estimated 200 people became ill. Dr Ryll, who headed the investigating medical team, called it "[[Infectious Venulitis]]" which he later believed to be a variant of [[ME/CFS]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ncf-net.org/forum/InfVenulitis-Fall05.htm | title = Infectious Venulitis | website = ncf-net.org|access-date=2020-10-17}}</ref><ref name="Ryll2005-IVN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.ncf-net.org/forum/InfVenulitis-Fall05.htm | date = Fall 2005|first = Erich|last = Ryll | authorlink = Erich Ryll | title = Infectious Venulitis|website=|access-date=2022-04-09|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20151022083413/http://www.oocities.org/sezar99q/MECFSInfectiousVenulitis.html|archive-date=2015-10-22|url-status=}}</ref>


==== [[1976 Ireland SW outbreak|1976 - Southwest Ireland]] ====
==== [[1976 Ireland SW outbreak|1976 - Southwest Ireland]] ====
Reports on Mylagic Encephalomyelits and epidemic neuromyasthenia in this region.
Reports on Mylagic Encephalomyelits and epidemic neuromyasthenia in this region.


==== [[1977 Dallas outbreak|1977 - Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, USA]] ====
==== [[1977 Dallas outbreak|1977 - Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, US]] ====
"Epidemic Neuromyasthenia" reported.
"Epidemic Neuromyasthenia" reported.
==== [[1978 notes|1978 - Symposium]] ====
Ed. note: Dr. Hyde's text notes that the first major ME symposium was held at the Royal Society of Medicine in London in this year.  ME aka epidemic neuromyasthenia, viral relationships to this disease, biochemical abnormalities in patients and other subjects were discussed by experts such as Shelokov, Ramsay, Richardson, Behan, Parish and others.<ref>to be moved</ref>


==== [[1979 Southampton outbreak| 1979 - Southampton, England]] ====
==== [[1979 Southampton outbreak| 1979 - Southampton, England]] ====
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===1980s===
===1980s===
1980-1988 Children’s hospital San Diego outbreak closes down Hospital. CDC investigates. Six children die 1980.  Medical doctor and two intensive care nurses die.


==== [[Ayrshire|1980-81 - West Kilbridge, Ayrshire, Scotland]] ====
==== [[Ayrshire|1980-81 - West Kilbridge, Ayrshire, Scotland]] ====
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The Gunnedah outbreak was linked with pesticides, which were conjectured to be interacting with viruses and other environmental chemicals in a post-viral syndrome.<ref name="Canb1987">[http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article122114779 "M.E.: a mystery illness affecting Australians"] ''The Canberra Times (newspaper)'' 12 November 1987: 19.</ref> Those affected included one local GP, with that GP forming the view this was clearly a physical illness.  The outbreak was featured in a film ''More than Just Poison'' made in 1986 by the Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals Committee.<ref>Video - [http://trove.nla.gov.au/version/8495284 "More Than Just Poison"] ''Arafura Films'', 1986</ref>
The Gunnedah outbreak was linked with pesticides, which were conjectured to be interacting with viruses and other environmental chemicals in a post-viral syndrome.<ref name="Canb1987">[http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article122114779 "M.E.: a mystery illness affecting Australians"] ''The Canberra Times (newspaper)'' 12 November 1987: 19.</ref> Those affected included one local GP, with that GP forming the view this was clearly a physical illness.  The outbreak was featured in a film ''More than Just Poison'' made in 1986 by the Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals Committee.<ref>Video - [http://trove.nla.gov.au/version/8495284 "More Than Just Poison"] ''Arafura Films'', 1986</ref>


==== [[Tapanui Flu|1984 - Tapanui & West Otago, New Zealand]] ====
==== [[1984 Tapanui & West Otago Outbreak|1984 - Tapanui & West Otago, New Zealand]] ====
Outbreak first described and an "unexplained illness," later as M.E.  Included here are outbreaks in Dunedin and Hamilton New Zealand.
Outbreak first described and an "unexplained illness," later as M.E.  Included here are outbreaks in Dunedin and Hamilton New Zealand.


==== [[1984 North America endemic|1984 - North America (Endemic)]] ====
==== [[1984 North America endemic|1984 - North America (Endemic)]] ====
"From 1984 until 1992 [at publication of this text] an endemic period occurred in which an usually large number of cluster and epidemics of M.E./CFS have been recognized in North America.  After an apparent initial increase in the morbidity in 1983 there seemed to have appeared in late summer of 1984 an unprecedented increase of sporadic and epidemic cases across North America.  Although certain geographical hot spots seen to have taken up much of the medical interest, this endemic situation probably represents an unusual and unremitting morbidity in all areas of the United States and Canada." -Dr. Byron Hyde-
"From 1984 until 1992 [at publication of this text] an endemic period occurred in which an usually large number of cluster and epidemics of [[ME/CFS]] have been recognized in North America.  After an apparent initial increase in the morbidity in 1983 there seemed to have appeared in late summer of 1984 an unprecedented increase of sporadic and epidemic cases across North America.  Although certain geographical hot spots seen to have taken up much of the medical interest, this endemic situation probably represents an unusual and unremitting morbidity in all areas of the United States and Canada." -Dr. Byron Hyde-


====[[1984 Incline Village chronic fatigue syndrome outbreak|1984 - Incline village, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, USA]] ====
====[[1984 Incline Village chronic fatigue syndrome outbreak|1984 - Incline village, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, US]] ====
A chronic illness characterized by fatigue, neurologic and immunologic disorders and active human herpesvirus type 6 infection. This community epidemic apparently started in a girls' basketball team, then involved primarily teachers in at least three high schools, and then large numbers of the community.<ref name="Newsweek19901111"/>
A chronic illness characterized by [[fatigue]], neurologic and immunologic disorders and active human [[Human herpesvirus 6]] infection. This community epidemic apparently started in a girls' basketball team, then involved primarily teachers in at least three high schools, and then large numbers of the community.<ref name="Newsweek19901111">{{Cite news | title = Chronic Fatigue Syndrome| publisher = Newsweek| date = 1990-11-11 | url = http://www.newsweek.com/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-205712}}</ref>


Note: This outbreak prompted a [[Centers for Disease Control]] response and was the catalyst for the name [[Chronic fatigue syndrome]] and the development of the CDC's 1994 research diagnostic tool [[Fukuda criteria]] used worldwide.
Note: This outbreak prompted a [[Centers for Disease Control]] response and was the catalyst for the name [[Chronic fatigue syndrome]] and the development of the CDC's 1994 research diagnostic tool [[Fukuda criteria]] used worldwide.


==== [[1984 Chapel Hill outbreak|1984 - Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA]] ====
==== [[1984 Chapel Hill outbreak|1984 - Chapel Hill, North Carolina, US]] ====
"Epidemic amongst members of The North Carolina Symphony Orchestra.  Low NKC [Natural Killer Cells] associated with high yield of lymphoma, astrocytoma, glioma."
"Epidemic amongst members of The North Carolina Symphony Orchestra.  Low NKC [[Natural killer cell]]s associated with high yield of lymphoma, astrocytoma, glioma."


All the members of the N.C. Symphony Orchestra, Chapel Hill, NC got sick. Seven remained ill with chronic fatigue as late as 2009.
All the members of the N.C. Symphony Orchestra, Chapel Hill, NC got sick. Seven remained ill with chronic fatigue as late as 2009.
Line 226: Line 220:
Over 500 cases of M.E./CFS documented during August-November 1984 period.  This endemic was active in all parts of Canada during this period and appears [to] have maintained its activity until the time of writing in 1991.
Over 500 cases of M.E./CFS documented during August-November 1984 period.  This endemic was active in all parts of Canada during this period and appears [to] have maintained its activity until the time of writing in 1991.


==== [[1984 Truckee outbreak|1984-85 - Truckee, California, USA]] ====
==== [[1984 Truckee outbreak|1984-85 - Truckee, California, US]] ====
M.E. epidemic involving teachers and students.
M.E. epidemic involving teachers and students.
1984 - 1985: Incline Village Nevada Lake Tahoe outbreak in town and all people vacationing at
This resort town.


==== [[1985 Lyndonville outbreak|1985 - Lyndonville, New York, USA]] ====
==== [[1985 Lyndonville outbreak|1985 - Lyndonville, New York, US]] ====
M.E. epidemic in a rural community involving children and adults.<ref name="Newsweek19901111"/>
M.E. epidemic in a rural community involving children and adults.<ref name="Newsweek19901111" />


==== [[1985 Yerington outbreak|1985 Yerington, Nevada, USA]] ====
==== [[1985 Yerington outbreak|1985 Yerington, Nevada, US]] ====
In the same area [not far from Truckee, California] an M.E./CFS-like epidemic reputedly occurred in a reservation of American Native people.
In the same area [not far from Truckee, California] an M.E./CFS-like epidemic reputedly occurred in a reservation of American Native people.


==== [[1986 Placerville outbreak|1986 - Placerville, California, USA]] ====
==== [[1986 Placerville outbreak|1986 - Placerville, California, US]] ====
Outbreak of chronic fatigue syndrome 'coincident with a heavy contamination of the local unfiltered water supply'.
Outbreak of chronic fatigue syndrome 'coincident with a heavy contamination of the local unfiltered water supply'.


==== [[1988 Sonora CA outbreak|1988 - Sonora, California, USA]] ====
==== [[1988 Sonora CA outbreak|1988 - Sonora, California, US]] ====
"More than 35 children and adults were diagnosed with M.E. in the mountain country 100 miles from Lake Tahoe.  Many of these patients were associated in some way with Columbia Community College."
"More than 35 children and adults were diagnosed with M.E. in the mountain country 100 miles from Lake Tahoe.  Many of these patients were associated in some way with Columbia Community College."


==== [[1988 Narrabeen outbreak|1988 - Narrabeen, NSW, Australia]] ====
==== [[1988 Narrabeen outbreak|1988 - Narrabeen, NSW, Australia]] ====
<ref name="Canb1987"/><ref>[http://www.mecfswa.org.au/About_ME-CFS/Brief_History ME/CFS Society of Western Australia - Endemic Outbreaks]</ref>
<ref name="Canb1987" /><ref>[http://www.mecfswa.org.au/About_ME-CFS/Brief_History ME/CFS Society of Western Australia - Endemic Outbreaks]</ref>


==== [[1989 Roseville CA outbreak|1989 - Roseville, California, USA]] ====
==== [[1989 Roseville CA outbreak|1989 - Roseville, California, US]] ====
Rosedale Hospital reported 11 cases of M.E./CFS among staff.
Rosedale Hospital reported 11 cases of M.E./CFS among staff.


===1990s===
===1990s===


==== [[1990 Elk Grove CA outbreak|1990 - Elk Grove, California, USA]] ====
==== [[1990 Elk Grove CA outbreak|1990 - Elk Grove, California, US]] ====
M.E. epidemic among teachers and students.
M.E. epidemic among teachers and students.


==== [[1996 Mohave Valley region, Arizona | 1996 - Mohave Valley region, Arizona, USA]] ====
==== [[1996 Mohave Valley region, Arizona |1996 - Mohave Valley region, Arizona, US]] ====
Over 100 people became ill with a "multi-system stealth virus infection with encephalopathy (MSVIE)."
Over 100 people became ill with a "multi-system stealth virus infection with encephalopathy (MSVIE)."
A protracted course followed, with a diverse range of symptoms similar to CFS.<ref>http://www.ccid.org/stealth/publications/msv.htm</ref>
A protracted course followed, with a diverse range of symptoms similar to CFS.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ccid.org/stealth/publications/msv.htm | title = Stealth Virus Epidemic in the Mohave Valley | website = ccid.org|access-date=2020-10-17}}</ref>
 
===2000s===
====[[2003 Hong Kong outbreak]]====
The 2003 Hong Kong outbreak of chronic fatigue syndrome was caused by the SARS pandemic.
 
====[[2004 Bergen, Norway outbreak]]====
An outbreak of Giardia, a parasite, in the water supply resulted in many people exposed to it developing either [[chronic fatigue syndrome]] or [[irritable bowel syndrome]]. A number of follow-up studies of this patient group have since been published.
 
===2010s===
 
====[[2019 Coronavirus pandemic outbreak]]====
The discovery of a new [[coronavirus]] and the related [[Coronavirus disease 19|COVID-19]] illness it caused led to a pandemic, with cases believed to have begun in November or December 2019.<ref name="NIHR15Oct2020">{{Cite web|url=https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/themedreview/living-with-covid19 | title = Living with covid-19. A dynamic review of the evidence around ongoing covid-19 symptoms (often called long covid). | last = NIHR|first =  | authorlink = | date = October 2020 | website = evidence.nihr.ac.uk|language=en-GB|archive-url=|archive-date=|url-status=|access-date=2020-10-15}}</ref>
 
===2020s===
 
====[[2019 Coronavirus pandemic outbreak]]====
The [[coronavirus]] first discovered in December 2019 led to high rates of [[Coronavirus disease 19|COVID-19]] illness, with COVID-19 being declared a pandemic in March 2020. The resulting [[Long COVID]] outbreak led to a ME/CFS outbreak, which remains ongoing.<ref name="NIHR15Oct2020" /> COVID-19 was a similar illness to [[SARS]], which cause the [[2003 Hong Kong outbreak]] of ME/CFS.


==Outbreaks by region==
==Outbreaks by region==


===North America===
===North America===
*[[1984 North America endemic|1984 - North America (Endemic)]]
 
*[[1984 - North America (Endemic)]]


====Canada====
====Canada====
*[[1984 Montreal outbreak| 1984 - Montreal, Quebec-Ontario, Canada]]
*[[1984 Montreal outbreak| 1984 - Montreal, Quebec-Ontario, Canada]]


====United States====
====United States====


*[[Los Angeles atypical polio outbreak|1934 - Los Angeles, USA]]
*[[1934 Los Angeles atypical polio outbreak|1934 - Los Angeles, US]]
*[[1936 Fond-du-Lac outbreak|1936 - Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin, USA]]
*[[1936 Fond-du-Lac outbreak|1936 - Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin, US]]
*[[1945 Pennsylvania outbreak|1945 - University Hospital of Pennsylvania, USA]]
*[[1945 Pennsylvania outbreak|1945 - University Hospital of Pennsylvania, US]]
*[[1950 Louisville outbreak|1950 - Louisville, Kentucky, USA]]
*[[1950 Louisville outbreak|1950 - Louisville, Kentucky, US]]
*[[1950 Upper New York State outbreak|1950 - Upper New York State, USA]]
*[[1950 Upper New York State outbreak|1950 - Upper New York State, US]]
*[[1952 Florida outbreak|1952 - Lakeland, Florida, USA]]
*[[1952 Florida outbreak|1952 - Lakeland, Florida, US]]
*[[1953 Maryland outbreak|1953 - Rockville, Maryland, USA]]
*[[1953 Maryland outbreak|1953 - Rockville, Maryland, US]]
*[[1954 Florida outbreak|1954 - Tallahassee, Florida, USA]]
*[[1954 Florida outbreak|1954 - Tallahassee, Florida, US]]
*[[1954 Seward outbreak|1954 - Seward, Alaska]]
*[[1954 Seward outbreak|1954 - Seward, Alaska, US]]
*[[1956 Ridgefield outbreak|1956 - Ridgefield, Connecticut, USA]]
*[[1956 Ridgefield outbreak|1956 - Ridgefield, Connecticut, US]]
*[[1956 Punta Gorda outbreak|1956 - Punta Gorda, Florida, USA]]
*[[1956 Punta Gorda outbreak|1956 - Punta Gorda, Florida, US]]
*[[1956 Massachusetts outbreak|1956 - Pittsfield, Williamstown, Massachusetts, USA]]
*[[1956 Massachusetts outbreak|1956 - Pittsfield, Williamstown, Massachusetts, US]]
*[[1961 New York State outbreak| 1961-62 - New York State, USA]]
*[[1961 New York State outbreak|1961-62 - New York State, US]]
*[[1964 Franklin outbreak|1964-66 - Franklin, Kentucky, USA]]
*[[1964 Franklin outbreak|1964-66 - Franklin, Kentucky, US]]
*[[1965 Galveston outbreak|1965-66 - Galveston County, Texas, USA]]
*[[1965 Galveston outbreak|1965-66 - Galveston County, Texas, US]]
*[[1969 New York outbreak|1969 - State University of New York, USA]]
*[[1969 New York outbreak|1969 - State University of New York, US]]
*[[1970 Lackland outbreak| 1970 - Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, USA]]
*[[1970 Lackland outbreak|1970 - Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, US]]
*[[1975 Sacramento outbreak|1975 - Sacramento, California, USA]]
*[[1975 Sacramento outbreak|1975 - Sacramento, California, US]]
*[[1977 Dallas outbreak|1977 - Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, USA]]
*[[1977 Dallas outbreak|1977 - Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, US]]
*[[1984 Incline Village chronic fatigue syndrome outbreak|1984 - Incline village, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, USA]]
*[[1984 Incline Village chronic fatigue syndrome outbreak|1984 - Incline village, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, US]]
*[[1984 Chapel Hill outbreak|1984 - Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA]]
*[[1984 Chapel Hill outbreak|1984 - Chapel Hill, North Carolina, US]]
*[[1984 Truckee outbreak|1984-85 - Truckee, California, USA]]
*[[1984 Truckee outbreak|1984-85 - Truckee, California, US]]
*[[1985 Lyndonville outbreak|1985 - Lyndonville, New York, USA]]
*[[1985 Lyndonville outbreak|1985 - Lyndonville, New York, US]]
*[[1985 Yerington outbreak|1985 Yerington, Nevada, USA]]
*[[1985 Yerington outbreak|1985 Yerington, Nevada, US]]
*[[1986 Placerville outbreak|1986 - Placerville, California, USA]]
*[[1986 Placerville outbreak|1986 - Placerville, California, US]]
*[[1988 Sonora CA outbreak|1988 - Sonora, California, USA]]
*[[1988 Sonora CA outbreak|1988 - Sonora, California, US]]
*[[1989 Roseville CA outbreak|1989 - Roseville, California, USA]]
*[[1989 Roseville CA outbreak|1989 - Roseville, California, US]]
*[[1990 Elk Grove CA outbreak|1990 - Elk Grove, California, USA]]
*[[1990 Elk Grove CA outbreak|1990 - Elk Grove, California, US]]
*[[1996 Mohave Valley region, AZ outbreak | 1996 - Mohave Valley region, Arizona, USA]]
*[[1996 Mohave Valley region, Arizona |1996 - Mohave Valley region, Arizona, US]]


===Europe===
===Europe===


====Denmark====
====Denmark====
*[[1952 Copenhagen outbreak| 1952 - Copenhagen, Denmark]]
 
*[[1952 Copenhagen outbreak|1952 - Copenhagen, Denmark]]
*[[1953 Jutland outbreak|1953 - Jutland, Denmark]]
*[[1953 Jutland outbreak|1953 - Jutland, Denmark]]


====Germany====
====Germany====
*[[1954 Berlin outbreak|1954 - Berlin, Germany]]
*[[1954 Berlin outbreak|1954 - Berlin, Germany]]


====Greece====
====Greece====
*[[1958 Athens outbreak|1958 - Athens, Greece]]
*[[1958 Athens outbreak|1958 - Athens, Greece]]


====Iceland====
====Iceland====
*[[1946-47 Iceland outbreak|1946-47 - Iceland]]
*[[1946-47 Iceland outbreak|1946-47 - Iceland]]
*[[Akureyri_outbreak|1948-49 - North Coast Towns, Iceland]]
*[[Akureyri_outbreak|1948-49 - North Coast Towns, Iceland]]
Line 314: Line 333:


====Ireland====
====Ireland====
*[[1976 Ireland SW outbreak|1976 - Southwest Ireland]]
*[[1976 Ireland SW outbreak|1976 - Southwest Ireland]]
====Norway====
*[[2004 Bergen, Norway outbreak|2004 - Bergen outbreak]]


====Switzerland====
====Switzerland====
*[[1937 Erstfeld outbreak|1937 - Erstfeld, Switzerland]]
*[[1937 Erstfeld outbreak|1937 - Erstfeld, Switzerland]]
*[[1937 St. Gallen outbreak|1937 - St. Gallen, Switzerland]]
*[[1937 St. Gallen outbreak|1937 - St. Gallen, Switzerland]]
Line 331: Line 356:
*[[Royal Free Hospital outbreak|1955 - London, England]]
*[[Royal Free Hospital outbreak|1955 - London, England]]
*[[1955 Wales outbreak|1955 - Gilfach Goch, Wales]]
*[[1955 Wales outbreak|1955 - Gilfach Goch, Wales]]
*[[1955 London outbreak|1955-56 - North West London, England]]
*[[1955 Royal Free Hospital outbreak|1955-57 Royal Free Hospital, North West London, England]]
*[[1956 Lancashire outbreak|1956 - Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire, England]]
*[[1956 Lancashire outbreak|1956 - Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire, England]]
*[[1956 Coventry outbreak|1956-57 - Coventry, England]]
*[[1956 Coventry outbreak|1956-57 - Coventry, England]]
Line 337: Line 362:
*[[1959 Newcastle outbreak|1959 - Newcastle upon Tyne, England]]
*[[1959 Newcastle outbreak|1959 - Newcastle upon Tyne, England]]
*[[1959 London NW outbreak|1959 - N.W. London, England]]
*[[1959 London NW outbreak|1959 - N.W. London, England]]
*[[1959 England|1959 - England]]
*[[1959 England outbreak|1959 - England]]
*[[1964 London NW outbreak|1964-66 - N.W. London, England]]
*[[1964 London NW outbreak|1964-66 - N.W. London, England]]
*[[1967 Edinburgh outbreak|1967-70 - Edinburgh, Scotland]]
*[[1967 Edinburgh outbreak|1967-70 - Edinburgh, Scotland]]
*[[1970 London outbreak|1970-71 - London, England]]
*[[1970 London outbreak|1970-71 - London, England]]
*[[1979 Southampton outbreak| 1979 - Southampton, England]]
*[[1979 Southampton outbreak|1979 - Southampton, England]]
*[[Ayrshire|1980-81 - West Kilbridge, Ayrshire, Scotland]]
*[[Ayrshire|1980-81 - West Kilbridge, Ayrshire, Scotland]]
*[[1980 Helensburgh outbreak|1980-83 - Helensburgh, Scotland]]
*[[1980 Helensburgh outbreak|1980-83 - Helensburgh, Scotland]]
Line 349: Line 374:


====Lebanon====
====Lebanon====
*[[1968 Fraidek outbreak|1968 - Fraidek, Lebanon]]
*[[1968 Fraidek outbreak|1968 - Fraidek, Lebanon]]
==== Hong Kong ====
[[2003 Hong Kong outbreak|2003 - Hong Kong outbreak]]


===Africa===
===Africa===


====Sierra Leone====
====Sierra Leone====
*[[1955 Segbwema outbreak|1955-56 - Segbwema, Sierra Leone]]
*[[1955 Segbwema outbreak|1955-56 - Segbwema, Sierra Leone]]


====South Africa====
====South Africa====
*[[1955 Durban outbreak|1955 - Durban and Durban City, South Africa]]
*[[1955 Durban outbreak|1955 - Durban and Durban City, South Africa]]


Line 373: Line 404:
*[[Tapanui Flu|1984 - West Otago, New Zealand]]
*[[Tapanui Flu|1984 - West Otago, New Zealand]]


== Related Lists ==
==== [[:Category:International outbreaks|International]] ====
* [[2003 Hong Kong outbreak]]- the same virus caused a fibromyalgia-like syndrome in [[Canada]]
* [[2019 Coronavirus pandemic outbreak]]


=== Related lists ===
* [http://www.meassociation.org.uk/shop/books/saga-of-royal-free-disease/ Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Post Viral Fatigue States: the Saga of the Royal Free Disease] by Dr Melvin Ramsay, 1955.
* [http://www.meassociation.org.uk/shop/books/saga-of-royal-free-disease/ Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Post Viral Fatigue States: the Saga of the Royal Free Disease] by Dr Melvin Ramsay, 1955.
* [http://www.meresearch.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/ME-Research-UK-Research-Publications-on-ME-epidemics-1934-1980.pdf Reference index of papers published on epidemics of ME 1934-80 (collected by Dr J. Gordon Parish)], ME Research UK, 1980.
* [http://www.meresearch.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/ME-Research-UK-Research-Publications-on-ME-epidemics-1934-1980.pdf Reference index of papers published on epidemics of ME 1934-80 (collected by Dr J. Gordon Parish)], ME Research UK, 1980.
* [http://www.nightingale.ca/index.php?target=bookoffer The Clinical and Scientific Basis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (edited by Dr. Byron Hyde)], Nightingale Foundation, 1992.
* [https://www.nightingale.ca/publications The Clinical and Scientific Basis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (edited by Dr. Byron Hyde)], Nightingale Foundation, 1992.


== See also ==
== See also ==
*[[Epidemic myalgic encephalomyelitis]]
*[[Definitions of ME and CFS]]
*[[Definitions of ME and CFS]]
*[[Eightfold increase in ME/CFS incidence in the 1980s]]


==References==
== Learn more ==
<references>
<ref name="Parish, 1978">
{{Citation
| last1  = Parish            | first1 = J.G.              | authorlink1 = Gordon Parish
| title  = Early outbreaks of 'epidemic neuromyasthenia'.
| journal = Postgraduate Medical Journal    | volume = 54  | issue = 637  | page = 711-717
| date    = November 1978
| pmid    = 370810
| url    = http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/370810
}}
</ref>


<ref name="Newsweek19901111">{{citation
== References ==
| title  = Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
{{Reflist}}
| journal = Newsweek
| date    = 1990-11-11
| url    = http://www.newsweek.com/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-205712
}}</ref>
</references>


[[Category:Outbreaks]]
[[Category:Outbreaks]]
[[Category:History]]
[[Category:History]]
[[Category:Lists]]
[[Category:Epidemiology]]

Latest revision as of 21:07, June 16, 2023

There have been dozens of documented outbreaks of myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome since the 1930s. The true number of clusters and outbreaks is likely vastly higher. Many of these outbreaks occurred in institutions like hospitals and schools, and frequently coincided with outbreaks of poliomyelitis.

The first recorded outbreak was in 1934 in Los Angeles and the most recent putative outbreak was in Arizona in 1996.

Outbreaks by decade[edit | edit source]

1930s[edit | edit source]

1934 - Los Angeles, US[edit | edit source]

Epidemic among personnel at L.A. County Hospital, Ruth Protection Home and throughout California, paralleling poliomyelitis, often diagnosed as atypical poliomyelitis, sometimes including arthropathy.[1]

1936 - Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin, US[edit | edit source]

An outbreak of "encephalitis" in St. Agnes Convent.[2][3]

1937 - Erstfeld, Switzerland[edit | edit source]

In less than two weeks, 130 soldiers stationed in Erstfeld, Switzerland became ill with a disease that was attributed to "Abortive poliomyelitis."[4]

1937 - St. Gallen, Switzerland[edit | edit source]

Outbreak in the women's section of a hospital in St Gallen, Switzerland affecting 28 staff and patients. They were diagnosed with "Abortive Poliomyelitis." [4]

1939 - Middlesex, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak at Harefield Sanatorium - "Persistent myalgia following sore throat."[3]

1939 - Degersheim, St. Gallen, Switzerland[edit | edit source]

Seventy-three cases of epidemic neuromyasthenia were reported among 800 soldiers stationed in Degersheim, Switzerland.[4]

1940s[edit | edit source]

1945 - University Hospital of Pennsylvania, US[edit | edit source]

Epidemic described as "pleurodynia with prominent neurological symptoms and no demonstrable cause."

1946-47 - Iceland[edit | edit source]

"Mixed epidemics of poliomyelitis and a disease resembling poliomyelitis with the character of the Akureyri Disease."

1948-49 - North Coast Towns, Iceland[edit | edit source]

"A disease epidemic in Iceland simulating Poliomyelitis" in three separate towns during this time.[3]

1949-1953 - Adelaide, Australia[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of a disease resembling poliomyelitis, during/after a poliomyelitis epidemic.

1950s[edit | edit source]

1950 - Louisville, Kentucky, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak in the Nurse's Training School of St. Joseph Infirmary, later described as "epidemic neuromyasthenia."

1950 - Upper New York State, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as resembling the "Iceland Disease...simulating Acute Anterior Poliomyelitis."

1952 - London, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak at Middlesex Hospital Nurses' Home described as "Encephalomyelitis associated with Poliomyelitis Virus."

1952 - Copenhagen, Denmark[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as "epidemic myositis."

1952 - Lakeland, Florida, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as epidemic neuromyasthenia.

1953 - Coventry and Coventry District, England[edit | edit source]

"An illness resembling Poliomyelitis observed in nurses."

1953 - Rockville, Maryland, US[edit | edit source]

Chestnut Lodge Hospital student nurses described with poliomyelitis-like epidemic neuromyasthenia.

1953 - Jutland, Denmark[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of "Epidemic encephalitis with vertigo."

1954 - Tallahassee, Florida, US[edit | edit source]

Bond JO. A new clinical entity? Lancet 1956; 2:256.

1954 - Seward, Alaska[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as "Benign Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (Iceland Disease)."[5]

1954 - Berlin, Germany[edit | edit source]

Among the British Army, a "further outbreak of a disease resembling poliomyelitis."

1954 - Liverpool, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak among medical and nursing staff in a Liverpool Hospital.

1954 - Dalston, Cumbria, England[edit | edit source]

"...an unusual disease seen in epidemic and sporadic form in general practice in 1955 and subsequent years."

1954 - Johannesburg[edit | edit source]

1955 - Perth, Australia[edit | edit source]

"Virus epidemic in recurrent waves."

1955 - Gilfach Goch, Wales[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of Benign encephalomyelitis.

1955 - Durban and Durban City, South Africa[edit | edit source]

Outbreak among nurses at Addington Hospital called "The Durban Mystery Disease" describing neuromuscular dysfunction, and epidemic myalgic encephalomyelopathy, including sporadic cases in Johannesburg of a outbreak resembling poliomyelitis.

1955 – North of England[edit | edit source]

1955-56 - Segbwema, Sierra Leone[edit | edit source]

An outbreak of encephalomyelitis.

1955-56 - Patreksfordur and Thorshofn, Iceland[edit | edit source]

Unusual response to poliomyelitis vaccination.

1955-1957 - Royal Free Hospital outbreak, London, England[edit | edit source]

Famous outbreak of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis simulating poliomyelitis, beginning among a residential home for nurses at the Royal Free Hospital.[6][7]

1956 - Ridgefield, Connecticut, US[edit | edit source]

An epidemic of neuromyasthenia.

1956 - Punta Gorda, Florida, US[edit | edit source]

An outbreak of epidemic neuromyasthenia.

1956 - Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as "lymphocytic meningo-encephalitis with myalgia and rash," "An outbreak of a disease believed to have been cause by Echo 9 virus," with other varying descriptions.

1956 - Pittsfield, Williamstown, Massachusetts, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of "epidemic neuromyasthenia" later described as benign myalgic encephalomyelitis. (Included in this summary are sporadic cases in Hygiea, Sweden, with descriptions of encephalitis, meningitis or poliomyelitis; Coxsackie B and Echovirus infections; benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.)

1956-57 - Coventry, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as epidemic malaise and benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.

1957 - Brighton, South Australia[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as "Coxsackie, Echo Virus meningitis and myalgic encephalomyelitis", "Epidemic myalgic encephalomyelitis," and "Benign myalgic encephalomyelitis."

1958 - Athens, Greece[edit | edit source]

An outbreak of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis in a nurse's school, "periostitis and arthropathy noted." (Included in this summary is an outbreak of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis in Switzerland.)

1958-59 - S.W. London, England[edit | edit source]

Reports of sporadic cases of myalgic encephalomyelitis.

1959 - Newcastle upon Tyne, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of benign myalgic encephalomylitis.

1959 - N.W. London, England[edit | edit source]

Reports of sporadic cases of influenza-like illness.

1959 - England[edit | edit source]

Article describing sporadic cases and "The psychiatric sequelae of Benign Myalgic Encephalomyelitis."

1960s[edit | edit source]

1961 - Basel, Switzerland[edit | edit source]

Sporadic case of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis described.

1961-62 - New York State, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as epidemic neuromyasthenia in a convent in New York State.

1964-66 - N.W. London, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as epidemic malaise and epidemic neuromyasthenia occurred in North Finchley, a suburb of London, England.

1964-66 - Franklin, Kentucky, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of "neuromyasthenia" in a Kentucky factory, possibly due to mercury exposure.

1965-66 - Galveston County, Texas, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak described as "Epidemic Neuromyasthenia Variant?" and "Epidemic Diencephalomyelitis," the latter describing neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular and endocrine disorders.

1967-70 - Edinburgh, Scotland[edit | edit source]

Sporadic cases resembling benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.

1968 - Fnaidek, Lebanon[edit | edit source]

Report on an epidemic of benign myalgic encephalomyelitis.

1969 - State University of New York, US[edit | edit source]

Medical Centre - report of epidemic Neuromyasthenia and "unidentified symptom complex."

1970s[edit | edit source]

1970 - Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, US[edit | edit source]

Epidemic Neuromyasthenia reported. "A syndrome or disease?"

1970-71 - London, England[edit | edit source]

An outbreak of "epidemic neuromyasthenia" among nurses a the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Oromond Street.

1975 - Sacramento, California, US[edit | edit source]

In 1975, an epidemic started first among the ICU staff and later spread throughout Mercy San Juan Hospital, in Carmichael, a suburb of Sacramento, CA. An estimated 200 people became ill. Dr Ryll, who headed the investigating medical team, called it "Infectious Venulitis" which he later believed to be a variant of ME/CFS.[8][9]

1976 - Southwest Ireland[edit | edit source]

Reports on Mylagic Encephalomyelits and epidemic neuromyasthenia in this region.

1977 - Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, US[edit | edit source]

"Epidemic Neuromyasthenia" reported.

1979 - Southampton, England[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of M.E. in a girls' school.

1980s[edit | edit source]

1980-1988 Children’s hospital San Diego outbreak closes down Hospital. CDC investigates. Six children die 1980. Medical doctor and two intensive care nurses die.

1980-81 - West Kilbridge, Ayrshire, Scotland[edit | edit source]

M.E. epidemic reported in a rural medical practice.

1980-83 - Helensburgh, Scotland[edit | edit source]

Coxsackie B outbreak reported in a general practice.

1981-82 - Stirlingshire, Scotland[edit | edit source]

Sporadic cases of M.E. reported.

1981 - Gunnedah, NSW, Australia[edit | edit source]

The Gunnedah outbreak was linked with pesticides, which were conjectured to be interacting with viruses and other environmental chemicals in a post-viral syndrome.[10] Those affected included one local GP, with that GP forming the view this was clearly a physical illness. The outbreak was featured in a film More than Just Poison made in 1986 by the Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals Committee.[11]

1984 - Tapanui & West Otago, New Zealand[edit | edit source]

Outbreak first described and an "unexplained illness," later as M.E. Included here are outbreaks in Dunedin and Hamilton New Zealand.

1984 - North America (Endemic)[edit | edit source]

"From 1984 until 1992 [at publication of this text] an endemic period occurred in which an usually large number of cluster and epidemics of ME/CFS have been recognized in North America. After an apparent initial increase in the morbidity in 1983 there seemed to have appeared in late summer of 1984 an unprecedented increase of sporadic and epidemic cases across North America. Although certain geographical hot spots seen to have taken up much of the medical interest, this endemic situation probably represents an unusual and unremitting morbidity in all areas of the United States and Canada." -Dr. Byron Hyde-

1984 - Incline village, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, US[edit | edit source]

A chronic illness characterized by fatigue, neurologic and immunologic disorders and active human Human herpesvirus 6 infection. This community epidemic apparently started in a girls' basketball team, then involved primarily teachers in at least three high schools, and then large numbers of the community.[12]

Note: This outbreak prompted a Centers for Disease Control response and was the catalyst for the name Chronic fatigue syndrome and the development of the CDC's 1994 research diagnostic tool Fukuda criteria used worldwide.

1984 - Chapel Hill, North Carolina, US[edit | edit source]

"Epidemic amongst members of The North Carolina Symphony Orchestra. Low NKC Natural killer cells associated with high yield of lymphoma, astrocytoma, glioma."

All the members of the N.C. Symphony Orchestra, Chapel Hill, NC got sick. Seven remained ill with chronic fatigue as late as 2009.

A series of studies done in 1988 and 1989 by the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Center showed that four of the inflicted NC orchestra members who developed cancer had lower levels of activity of natural killer cells, a type of immune cell that can directly kill cancer.

1984 - Montreal, Quebec-Ontario, Canada[edit | edit source]

Over 500 cases of M.E./CFS documented during August-November 1984 period. This endemic was active in all parts of Canada during this period and appears [to] have maintained its activity until the time of writing in 1991.

1984-85 - Truckee, California, US[edit | edit source]

M.E. epidemic involving teachers and students. 1984 - 1985: Incline Village Nevada Lake Tahoe outbreak in town and all people vacationing at This resort town.

1985 - Lyndonville, New York, US[edit | edit source]

M.E. epidemic in a rural community involving children and adults.[12]

1985 Yerington, Nevada, US[edit | edit source]

In the same area [not far from Truckee, California] an M.E./CFS-like epidemic reputedly occurred in a reservation of American Native people.

1986 - Placerville, California, US[edit | edit source]

Outbreak of chronic fatigue syndrome 'coincident with a heavy contamination of the local unfiltered water supply'.

1988 - Sonora, California, US[edit | edit source]

"More than 35 children and adults were diagnosed with M.E. in the mountain country 100 miles from Lake Tahoe. Many of these patients were associated in some way with Columbia Community College."

1988 - Narrabeen, NSW, Australia[edit | edit source]

[10][13]

1989 - Roseville, California, US[edit | edit source]

Rosedale Hospital reported 11 cases of M.E./CFS among staff.

1990s[edit | edit source]

1990 - Elk Grove, California, US[edit | edit source]

M.E. epidemic among teachers and students.

1996 - Mohave Valley region, Arizona, US[edit | edit source]

Over 100 people became ill with a "multi-system stealth virus infection with encephalopathy (MSVIE)." A protracted course followed, with a diverse range of symptoms similar to CFS.[14]

2000s[edit | edit source]

2003 Hong Kong outbreak[edit | edit source]

The 2003 Hong Kong outbreak of chronic fatigue syndrome was caused by the SARS pandemic.

2004 Bergen, Norway outbreak[edit | edit source]

An outbreak of Giardia, a parasite, in the water supply resulted in many people exposed to it developing either chronic fatigue syndrome or irritable bowel syndrome. A number of follow-up studies of this patient group have since been published.

2010s[edit | edit source]

2019 Coronavirus pandemic outbreak[edit | edit source]

The discovery of a new coronavirus and the related COVID-19 illness it caused led to a pandemic, with cases believed to have begun in November or December 2019.[15]

2020s[edit | edit source]

2019 Coronavirus pandemic outbreak[edit | edit source]

The coronavirus first discovered in December 2019 led to high rates of COVID-19 illness, with COVID-19 being declared a pandemic in March 2020. The resulting Long COVID outbreak led to a ME/CFS outbreak, which remains ongoing.[15] COVID-19 was a similar illness to SARS, which cause the 2003 Hong Kong outbreak of ME/CFS.

Outbreaks by region[edit | edit source]

North America[edit | edit source]

Canada[edit | edit source]

United States[edit | edit source]

Europe[edit | edit source]

Denmark[edit | edit source]

Germany[edit | edit source]

Greece[edit | edit source]

Iceland[edit | edit source]

Ireland[edit | edit source]

Norway[edit | edit source]

Switzerland[edit | edit source]

United Kingdom[edit | edit source]

Asia[edit | edit source]

Lebanon[edit | edit source]

Hong Kong[edit | edit source]

2003 - Hong Kong outbreak

Africa[edit | edit source]

Sierra Leone[edit | edit source]

South Africa[edit | edit source]

Australia and New Zealand[edit | edit source]

Australia[edit | edit source]

New Zealand[edit | edit source]

International[edit | edit source]

Related lists[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Learn more[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Gilliam, A.G. (1938). "Epidemiological Study Of An Epidemic, Diagnosed As Poliomyelitis, Occurring Among The Personnel Of The Los Angeles County General Hospital During The Summer Of 1934". Public health bulletin, 1936-1938: 231–240.
  2. ↑ Armstong, Charles A. (1936), Report to the Surgeon General, US Public Health Service, of the investigation of an outbreak of "Encephalitis" in the St. Agnes Convent, Fond-du-Lac, Wisconsin.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Roueché, Berton (November 19, 1965). "In The Bughouse". 41 (Part 6). The New Yorker. p. 208.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Parish, J.G. (November 1978). "Early outbreaks of 'epidemic neuromyasthenia'". Postgraduate Medical Journal. 54 (637): 711-717. PMID 370810.
  5. ↑ Deisher, J.B. (1957). "Benign myalgic encephalomyelitis (Iceland disease) in Alaska" (PDF). Northwest medicine. 56 (12): 1451–1456. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 24, 2014.
  6. ↑ Ramsay, A.M. (1957). "Encephalomyelitis in North West London. An Endemic infection simulating Poliomyelitis and Hysteria". Lancet. 273 (7007): 1196–1200. doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(57)90163-0. PMID 13492606.
  7. ↑ Geffen, Dennis; Tracy, Susan M. (October 19, 1957). "An Outbreak of Acute Infective Encephalomyelitis in a Residential Home for Nurses in 1956" (PDF). British Medical Journal. 2 (5050): 904–906. doi:10.1136/bmj.2.5050.904. ISSN 0007-1447. PMC 1962504. PMID 13472003.
  8. ↑ "Infectious Venulitis". ncf-net.org. Retrieved October 17, 2020.
  9. ↑ Ryll, Erich (Fall 2005). "Infectious Venulitis". Archived from the original on October 22, 2015. Retrieved April 9, 2022.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 "M.E.: a mystery illness affecting Australians" The Canberra Times (newspaper) 12 November 1987: 19.
  11. ↑ Video - "More Than Just Poison" Arafura Films, 1986
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome". Newsweek. November 11, 1990.
  13. ↑ ME/CFS Society of Western Australia - Endemic Outbreaks
  14. ↑ "Stealth Virus Epidemic in the Mohave Valley". ccid.org. Retrieved October 17, 2020.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 NIHR (October 2020). "Living with covid-19. A dynamic review of the evidence around ongoing covid-19 symptoms (often called long covid)". evidence.nihr.ac.uk. Retrieved October 15, 2020.

myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.) - A disease often marked by neurological symptoms, but fatigue is sometimes a symptom as well. Some diagnostic criteria distinguish it from chronic fatigue syndrome, while other diagnostic criteria consider it to be a synonym for chronic fatigue syndrome. A defining characteristic of ME is post-exertional malaise (PEM), or post-exertional neuroimmune exhaustion (PENE), which is a notable exacerbation of symptoms brought on by small exertions. PEM can last for days or weeks. Symptoms can include cognitive impairments, muscle pain (myalgia), trouble remaining upright (orthostatic intolerance), sleep abnormalities, and gastro-intestinal impairments, among others. An estimated 25% of those suffering from ME are housebound or bedbound. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies ME as a neurological disease.

myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.) - A disease often marked by neurological symptoms, but fatigue is sometimes a symptom as well. Some diagnostic criteria distinguish it from chronic fatigue syndrome, while other diagnostic criteria consider it to be a synonym for chronic fatigue syndrome. A defining characteristic of ME is post-exertional malaise (PEM), or post-exertional neuroimmune exhaustion (PENE), which is a notable exacerbation of symptoms brought on by small exertions. PEM can last for days or weeks. Symptoms can include cognitive impairments, muscle pain (myalgia), trouble remaining upright (orthostatic intolerance), sleep abnormalities, and gastro-intestinal impairments, among others. An estimated 25% of those suffering from ME are housebound or bedbound. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies ME as a neurological disease.

myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.) - A disease often marked by neurological symptoms, but fatigue is sometimes a symptom as well. Some diagnostic criteria distinguish it from chronic fatigue syndrome, while other diagnostic criteria consider it to be a synonym for chronic fatigue syndrome. A defining characteristic of ME is post-exertional malaise (PEM), or post-exertional neuroimmune exhaustion (PENE), which is a notable exacerbation of symptoms brought on by small exertions. PEM can last for days or weeks. Symptoms can include cognitive impairments, muscle pain (myalgia), trouble remaining upright (orthostatic intolerance), sleep abnormalities, and gastro-intestinal impairments, among others. An estimated 25% of those suffering from ME are housebound or bedbound. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies ME as a neurological disease.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a U.S. government agency dedicated to epidemiology and public health. It operates under the auspices of the Department of Health and Human Services.

BMJ The BMJ (previously the British Medical Journal) is a weekly peer-reviewed medical journal.

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