Fourth International ME/CFS Conference in Berlin

The fourth International ME/CFS Conference, organised by the Charité Fatigue Center (CFC) and the ME/CFS Research Foundation, was held in Berlin on 7 and 8 May 2026. The event was addressed to doctors and other medical professionals, researchers and experts from the fields of medicine and biology. The focus was on the latest findings on the disease mechanisms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and new developments in diagnosis and treatment research. 
Research into Long COVID was also given comprehensive coverage. 

Viral infections are known to trigger ME/CFS. Some of those affected develop this disease following an infection with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.  ME/CFS is typically accompanied by profound exhaustion and other symptoms that can significantly restrict everyday life and, in some cases, can lead to the need for long-term care.

The Conference also focused on research into the biological underpinnings of ME/CFS. Presentations shared current findings on genetic factors, imaging and biomarkers. Biomarkers are measurable biological indicators, such as distinct substances in the blood or cellular changes, that can help to identify a disease. Moreover, discussions addressed changes of the body’s vascular, nervous, immune and metabolic systems that are related to the condition. 

On the second day of the Conference, current data from clinical trials and new approaches to treating ME/CFS and Long COVID were presented. Clinical trials are scientific studies involving patients to investigate the efficacy and safety of new treatments. One focus was on interventions that target immune dysregulation. Moreover, a German-language symposium was held to summarise relevant study results for the wider public.

Once more, this event was instrumental in strengthening international scientific exchange and advancing the development of diagnostic and treatment approaches to ME/CFS and Long COVID. The videos of the presentations are freely available on the website of the ME/CFS Research Foundation.