Page 31 of Airborne
Heather breathed a prayer for courage. “What are the dangers for my baby since I’ve been exposed to a hemorrhagic virus? Is—?”
“While medical researchers have identified the type of virus, more information and testing are necessary before a treatment plan can be implemented.”
Throat and nasal swabs completed at the airport could show a different result, but Heather wouldn’t press the issue. “Perhaps today medical authorities will have data to share.”
“We all could breathe easier.”
“Is there a threat of miscarriage or birth defects?”
“Studies show normal flu doesn’t increase your chances of miscarriage. But any contagion has the potential for birth defects, which is why I plan to monitor all of your activities.”
“What other hemorrhagic viruses have stats? The pregnant women often miscarry or their babies are premature and don’t survive.”
“Heather, worry and stress are enemies to you and your baby. Let’s figure out what has made people sick and how to treat it. All you can do is take good care of yourself. Report to a medical person any bleeding, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, fever, diarrhea, or intense muscle aches. The point to remember is many virus symptoms mirror pregnancy. What have you experienced with thebaby?”
“Fatigue, backaches, a little dizzy at times.”
Dr. Francisca made notes. “I’ve ordered an ultrasound and additional blood work once you and I are finished talking.”
“What are you looking for?”
“An increase in a protein or a hormone in your placenta. I’ll compare the results with what your doctor originally noted.”
“For chromosome abnormality?”
“Correct. And the ultrasound will allow me to take a look at your baby. Does your husband have permission to view your medical records?”
“Yes. I’d prefer waiting to find out the sex unless you advise otherwise.”
“Of course. Dr. Radcom will receive copies of the results. They should be available later today.”
“Are you ordering an amniocentesis?” Heather said.
“Only if test results give us a reason.”
Heather had spent enough fretful moments craving answers. She’d manage a few more. “You’re asking an always-in-control person to relax. Okay, I’ll do my best.”
“Good. I’ll walk you back to the lab area. We have everything we need here.”
After the blood draw and the ultrasound, Heather ate breakfast, not for herself but for her baby. A healthy mommy meant a healthy newborn. At least it made sense. The smells of bacon, eggs, and mile-high biscuits were tantalizing, and she complimented the cook, who thanked her with an accent straight out of Texas. No wonder the food tasted homemade. Strange how something she often took for granted became a precious gift.
A few people and families were up and in the cafeteria. Some talked in hushed tones. Perhaps they found it difficult to sleep in the new surroundings. She should force herself to speak to them, invite an environment of friendship. All she managed was a smile beneath her mask and a muffled “Good morning.”
TV news flashed on the screen with the president’s earlier announcement of flight3879’s medical emergency. By his side were SAC Fielder from New York City, SAC Bischoff from Houston, and a representative of the CDC. The two men spokebriefly as figureheads. She listened to what she’d already heard before plodding down the hall back to her room.
Two techs raced past her pushing a gurney. Heather saw Maria’s face, the quiet woman from her room whose sister was at Jamaica Hospital. She held tissues to her nose, and blood stained her white blouse. Heather wanted to stop the gurney and reassure Maria that she’d be fine.
“Is she going to the hospital?” Heather said.
“Yes.”
What about the other women rooming with her? Would this ever end?
CHAPTER TWENTY
FROM THE DEPTH OF SLEEPthat paralleled drug-induced unconsciousness, Heather stirred at the sound of her name. She opened her eyes to Doris’s kindly face. “I’m sorry to bother you again. Dr. Jordan Radcom wants to see you.”
Was Maria okay? Did he have her test results? Was Dr. Francisca with him?Shake it off, Heather. Be an agent, not a neurotic pregnant woman.
