Q: Is chronic fatigue syndrome contagious?

A:

There are no indications that chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is contagious or that it can be transmitted through intimate or casual contact. Research continues to determine the safety of blood donation by people with CFS, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome. The American Red Cross and America's Blood Centers, the two largest blood collectors in the United States, recommend the indefinite deferral of potential blood donors with a past or current history of CFS.