ME/CFS is a complex, long-term illness characterised by severe fatigue, along with other symptoms like sleep disturbances, brain fog, flu-like feelings and sensory sensitivities. It affects around 250,000 people in the UK alone, particularly women, but despite being widespread there is no definitive treatment, and its exact cause isn’t known.

Research has suggested that microbial infection may trigger or worsen the condition, by disrupting the immune system and causing long-term inflammation.

To better understand which microbes are linked to ME/CFS, the Quadram research team are recruiting females, aged 18-45, with a confirmed ME diagnosis who are living in England. The team are looking for volunteers who are willing to collect swab samples from the comfort of home and post them to the Quadram Institute.

The team are also recruiting healthy female participants, aged 18-45.

The team will then compare these samples, to identify any bacteria, fungi or viruses that are associated with ME/CFS.

The Comprehensive Microbial Surveillance Using Multisite Swabs in People With And Without ME (Compass-ME) study is being funded by the charity Invest in ME Research UK. This study has received ethical approval from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Research Ethics Subcommittee (FMH S-REC), ensuring that it meets the necessary ethical standards for research.

“I believe this study is crucial – a stepping stone in understanding and unravelling the mystery of the cause of ME/CFS. It brings us one step closer to improving diagnosis and developing better treatment options for those affected by ME/CFS.” – Dr Krishani Perera, PhD

For more information about the Compass-ME Study, eligibility details and how to register your interest in taking part, please visit our study webpage.

Please be aware that this study is entirely voluntary and does not include any financial incentives.