Page 48 of Airborne
Tatum raised her hand. “What’s next for the CDC?”
“To confirm what we grow in culture is what has caused the disease. The microorganism or other pathogen must be presentin all the cases. Then the pathogen can be isolated from the diseased host, grown in pure culture, and be used to cause disease in another host.”
“Dr. Radcom,” Tatum said. “I need an explanation in language I can understand.”
“I’m sorry. Let me break this into four steps. Number one, we’ll test for all of the common viruses. So far nothing has been confirmed. Number two, because viruses are too small to see in a microscope, we’ll look at infected cells through a microscope. Cells infected by a virus look different than normal cells or those infected by bacteria. Number three, to find what virus is causing the infection, we’ll take a sample from an infected patient and use it to infect cells in the lab to grow and isolate the virus in a flask. After that, we’ll perform a test to figure out the virus’s genetic fingerprint. We’ll map the sequence to similar viruses, although it will also have parts that are different.”
“Won’t the process take months? Because if what you described can’t be done quickly, then a cure could take years.”
“We are expediting every area, but we must be thorough. Again, if any of you are experiencing illness, please tell us. The sooner we can treat you, the higher the probability of recovery. Cooperation is key. We all must look out for each other and work together. Your concerns and questions will be confidential. My office is located down the hall behind me on your left.” He pointed to Heather. “An FBI special agent is among us. Heather, would you join me up here?”
She walked to Jordan’s side. Not a time for smiles.
“This is the woman who’s responsible,” the scruffy-bearded Parker said.
Heather wasn’t surprised at his outburst. Neither would she address it.
Catherine snorted. “Deal with it and grow up. You’re blaming a woman who puts her life on the line to protect you. You shouldbe ashamed. She wiped up blood and vomit on the plane while you sat there with your eyes closed. I observed her heroism and your ignorance. You’re a sniveling coward.”
“If she’d given her husband a divorce, none of us would be imprisoned on this island. She’s to blame for every sick person at Jamaica Hospital and those at the morgue.”
“I will not tolerate any accusations,” Jordan said.
“What if you were inconvenienced and losing money?”
“What if your wife was at Jamaica Hospital?” Jordan’s even tone hushed the crowd. “What if you were dying?”
Parker grumbled but kept his mouth shut. A lot of bark.
Jordan caught Heather’s attention. “From your perspective, how can we make the quarantine easier?”
“Patience is difficult under tragic circumstances, but we must follow CDC guidelines and stick together to survive the mental, emotional, and physical stress. Make friends.”
Parker waved his hand. “I’m not receiving pay while I’m stuck here. As a federal salaried employee, you still get your money. Sit back and wait out the quarantine, Ms. Fed. What’s the government doing for us?”
“I’m sure compensation is being discussed,” she said.
He swore.
Thomas strode to the front dressed in jeans and a cream-colored knit shirt. His demeanor was pure professional mode. “If Dr. Radcom and Agent Lawrence would permit me to speak, I’d like to address one of the gentleman’s concerns.”
“Go ahead,” Jordan said.
“My name is Thomas Powell. I’m the CEO for Software Developers International. For every person here who would otherwise be employed, I’ll deposit an equivalent amount for lost wages into your bank account at the end of our quarantine. In turn, I ask for teamwork with the CDC, FBI, and law enforcement whohave their lives on hold until the problem is resolved. For those hospitalized, I will offer monetary compensation to their families.”
The room thundered with applause. Heather respected his position, a way to help ease some of the rising fears.
Jordan grasped Thomas’s hand. “Mr. Powell, we appreciate your generous offer. When you proposed this to me earlier, I knew then I wanted you to speak directly to these good people.”
“I’m honored to relieve some of the pressure. In addition, I’m prepared to contribute $4million to the virus research.” He returned to the back of the room.
His humble approach coupled with benevolence increased his likability meter among the crowd. Thomas Powell was known for his charitable contributions and his company’s excellent reputation in the business world.
The room thinned, and Thomas approached her. “Morning, Heather.”
She nodded a greeting. “These people and the CDC are fortunate to be the recipients of your kind gesture. Many people face financial worries, but you’ve alleviated their burden.”
“It’s something I’m equipped to do.” He shoved his hands into jean pockets. “Are you helping the CDC and FBI keep peace here?”
