IL SR0667

Declares May 12, 2026 as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) Awareness Day in Illinois

ME affects up to 9 million Americans, including over 100,000 Illinoisans, with symptoms including post-exertional malaise, debilitating fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction

Approximately 25% of ME patients are housebound or bedbound, and an estimated 75% cannot sustain employment or education due to illness severity

Up to 91% of people with ME remain undiagnosed, and prevalence has increased significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic, with up to half of Long COVID patients meeting ME diagnostic criteria

Encourages increased public education, support for affected individuals and families, and continued attention to research and health care initiatives for diagnosis and treatment