Over the last few weeks, we have received many messages asking if fibromyalgia increases the risk of developing COVID-19, the illness caused by SARS-CoV-2 (aka, "the coronavirus"). Tami has interviewed several doctors to get the facts, as best as we know them right now. This episode contains the information we know to be accurate as of the time of publishing. Tami also covers things you can do to strengthen your immune system so your body is best equipped to fight off COVID-19. Key Points Fibromyalgia itself doesn't increase your risk of COVID-19. However, fibromyalgia patients often have compromised immune systems which does increase your risk. Your best protection is to avoid exposure to the virus by staying home. Make sure your body and immune system are as healthy as possible to fight off infections. If you have autoimmune conditions, you want to be careful about how you strengthen your immune system. Focusing on the positive strengthens your immune system response. Be gentle with yourself. This is not the time to be beating yourself up. Links & Resources Get free copies of Tami’s books here Visit FibroWorkshop.com to discover our monthly free FibroWorkshops taught LIVE by Tami. "Are You at Higher Risk for Coronavirus?" Dr. Lynn Webster. Pain News Network. 15 February 2020. The Painful Truth: What Chronic Pain Is Really Like and Why It Matters to Each of Us, Lynn Webster, MD on Amazon (affiliate Link) It Hurts Until You Die (film) Segerstrom, Suzanne C., et al. "Optimism is associated with mood, coping, and immune change in response to stress." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 74.6 (1998): 1646. Other Episodes Mentioned Episode 32: Your World Revolves Around Your Healing, Not Your Illness