TRAINING SUCCESSFUL PRACTITIONERS

Endless Coughs & Flu: Why is Everyone Getting Sick?

Share this article:

Change Career | Improve Your Own Health | Help Others, Explore our CNM Diploma courses

Is it a virus… or something more?

If it feels like everyone around you is constantly battling coughs, colds and lingering respiratory issues, you’re not alone. A surge in respiratory illnesses has left many wondering what’s really going on.

One virus making headlines is HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus). Dubbed the ‘deadly virus’, it’s being blamed for a spike in hospital visits and even whispers of another potential lockdown. But is HMPV truly the culprit, or is there a bigger issue at play?

Beyond the headlines, more people are struggling to recover from illness, raising concerns about toxins, weakened immune systems and environmental exposures. Could these factors be fuelling the wave of sickness – and more importantly, how can you protect yourself?

What Is HMPV?

HMPV is a respiratory virus first identified in 2001, though it has likely been circulating for decades. It belongs to the same viral family as RSV and linked to respiratory infections, especially in young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. HMPV symptoms can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory distress, including coughs and wheezing, congestion, fever, shortness of breath and fatigue. In severe cases, HMPV can lead to pneumonia and bronchitis, requiring hospitalisation.

Why are so many people getting sick?

HMPV has recently gained attention due to a surge in respiratory illnesses and an increase in hospital visits over the past few weeks. In recent years, more people seem to be falling ill more frequently, often experiencing lingering or unexplained health issues.

While viruses like HMPV and other respiratory infections are being blamed, the real issue lies in the growing burden of environmental toxins, weakened immune systems, and widespread exposure to harmful substances.

Here’s a deeper look at what’s really going on:

The impact of COVID vaccinations

Many people who received COVID-19 vaccinations have reported ongoing health concerns, including immune dysregulation, increased susceptibility to infections and inflammatory conditions. The spike protein introduced by mRNA vaccines can linger in the body, triggering chronic inflammation and autoimmune responses. There is research to suggest repeated booster doses may weaken natural immunity over time, making people more vulnerable to other infections. Some individuals have reported post-vaccine symptoms related to blood clotting, fatigue and neurological effects.

Chemtrails and airborne toxins

The persistent white trails left by aeroplanes (often referred to as ‘chemtrails’) contain toxic heavy metals and pollutants that can negatively impact human health. These trails expose us to aluminium and barium, which have been linked to neurological issues and immune dysfunction. Compromised air quality is also contributing to a rise in respiratory problems, with more people experiencing asthma, chronic coughs, and unexplained fatigue.

Environmental pollution

We are exposed to a growing number of chemicals and pollutants in our daily lives, which weaken our immune defences and contribute to chronic illnesses. Traffic and industrial pollution being a major culprit.  Fine particulate matter from car exhaust and factories is linked to lung disease and cardiovascular issues. Chemicals like BPA and phthalates found in personal care products, cleaning agents, plastic packaging and pesticides are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormones and immune function.

Toxins in food and water

Many people assume that tap water in Western countries is safe to drink, but this is far from the truth. In the UK, water supplies often contain a range of chemicals, including:

  • Fluoride – Originally used in rat poison, fluoride is added to water despite concerns about its links to thyroid suppression and neurotoxicity.
  • Chlorine and chloramine – Used to disinfect water but can disrupt beneficial gut bacteria.
  • Heavy metals – Lead, mercury and arsenic from old pipes and industrial waste can contribute to neurological and immune issues.
  • Pharmaceutical residues – Traces of antibiotics, antidepressants and hormones have been found in tap water.

Beyond water contamination, our food system is increasingly compromised by harmful additives, preservatives, pesticides and genetically modified (GM) ingredients. Additives and preservatives are linked to allergies, hyperactivity, and even cancer. Pesticide residues on food can disrupt hormonal balance and negatively impact the nervous system. As these toxins accumulate in our bodies over time, they place an increasing burden on our health.

Got a health issue you want to resolve? Ready to take charge of your family’s health or explore a career change?

Get in touch for more information and start your journey!

Terrain theory: why it matters

When it comes to understanding why some people get severely ill from viruses while others recover quickly, or don’t get sick at all, it’s essential to consider terrain theory. Unlike germ theory, which focuses on pathogens as the primary cause of disease, terrain theory focuses on the state of your body’s internal environment determines whether an infection takes hold or not.

In other words, a strong and well-balanced terrain makes you more resilient to infections, while a weakened terrain makes you more susceptible. Your terrain is influenced by several factors, including nutrient status and deficiencies, gut health, toxin exposure, stress levels, and sleep quality

Think of it like a goldfish in a bowl. If the goldfish becomes sick, do you simply give it antibiotics and hope for the best? Or do you change the dirty water, clean the bowl, and provide fresh algae and nutritious food to restore its health? Just like the goldfish, our bodies thrive in a clean, well-nourished environment.

When a virus like HMPV spreads, it doesn’t automatically mean everyone exposed will become severely ill. The people who do tend to be those with a compromised terrain – due to poor nutrition, inflammation or stress. By focusing on strengthening your internal environment, you can improve resilience, reduce symptom severity, and recover faster if you do get sick.

How to strengthen your terrain naturally

Nourish your body with nutrient-dense foods

A strong immune system and healthy terrain relies on key vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to protect against illness and maintain balance. Nutrient-dense foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats and herbs support immune health and reduce inflammation. To learn more about nourishing your body with the right foods and nutrients, explore the CNM Naturopathic Diet. This mini-course provides practical guidance on food choices to keep you and family healthy.

CNM Naturopathic Diet

Support your gut health

Since 70% of your immune system resides in the gut, a healthy microbiome is key to immunity and overall health. A balanced gut helps protect against pathogens, regulate inflammation and support digestion. An imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can weaken your immune system, increase inflammation, and raise the risk of infections, allergies and autoimmune conditions. To learn more about supporting gut health, check out CNM’s Gut Health mini course for practical tips and insights.

Gut Health & Immune System

Reduce toxin exposure

Minimise exposure to harmful toxins by avoiding processed foodsartificial sweeteners, and chemical additives. Filter your water to remove heavy metals and contaminants, and choose natural cleaning and personal care products to reduce your toxic load. To learn more about effective detox strategies and natural skincare solutions, take a look at:

Natural Skincare

Natural Cleaning Products 

How to Detox Naturally

Stress management

Chronic stress and poor sleep can significantly weaken your immune system and muddy your terrain. To manage stress, incorporate practices like mindfulness, breathwork and gentle exercises to lower cortisol levels. Prioritise quality sleep, aiming for 7- 9 hours each night, and establish a calming bedtime routine to support restful sleep. Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola and holy basil can also help regulate stress hormones and restore balance.

How to Relieve Stress

Use herbal remedies for immune support

Nature provides powerful support for the immune system and respiratory health. Incorporating these herbs into your routine can help strengthen your defences and promote overall wellness:

  • Elderberry – A powerhouse for respiratory health, elderberry helps inhibit viral replication and supports the body’s natural defences.
  • Echinacea – Known for enhancing immune response, echinacea can reduce the severity and duration of infections.
  • Mullein – A traditional lung-supporting herb that soothes irritation, promotes mucus clearance and supports respiratory function.
  • Turmeric – A potent anti-inflammatory herb that aid respiratory health and overall immune balance.

To learn more about how to use herbs for everyday ailments and to support your health, have a look at Herbs for Everyday Living short course.

Herbs for Everyday Living

Boost your natural defences

Taking care of your terrain is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from becoming seriously ill when viruses like HMPV spread. By focusing on strengthening your body’s internal environment through proper nutrition, gut health and toxin reduction, you can build resilience against infections and help your body recover more quickly if illness does strike. Remember, a well-nourished and balanced terrain can make all the difference in staying healthy and thriving, even in the face of external threats.

Share this

Enquiry Form