But the reporters paid no heed to such matters. The more evasive the answers, the more sensational the story seemed.
The more they investigated, the greater the possibility of a major revelation.
Although each reporter yearned for exclusive, firsthand information, through frequent interviews, they had become acquainted with one another.
Under these circumstances, the reporters began to form groups for their interviews.
"You all go back first. The dean said they're still researching, still researching!"
Zhang Demao said, blocking three reporters with his hands.
"Dean Li, today we must get a response. Has the virus from several years ago resurfaced?"
One person asked loudly.
The other two also waited with expectant expressions for Dean Li's reply.
A single "yes" would be a huge story!
After all, that virus had an extremely high mortality rate, and news of its resurgence would undoubtedly cause panic.
Let alone spreading the news, just the interview itself, coupled with the appearance of Director Zhang and Dean Li, was enough to send shivers down their spines.
"I cannot comment on that! I cannot comment! Please all go back, go back. I will notify you immediately when there is any news, alright?"
Dean Li said politely.
This was a standard polite dismissal, and the reporters were clearly not going to be placated by such words.
Having been through many such encounters, they wouldn't take perfunctory remarks to heart.
"Dean Li, Dean Li!"
Someone called out persistently.
Zhang Demao had no choice but to strenuously block them from approaching Dean Li.
Dean Li quickly found an opportunity and turned away.
How could the reporters tolerate Dean Li's escape?
"Alas!"
Some sighed, others lunged forward, but Zhang Demao firmly held onto their clothes.
...
On his way back to the office, Minister Gao immediately ordered samples to be taken.
The results came back quickly, and viral samples were found in the work environment.
"So, they were likely infected by animals?"
Dean Li asked upon receiving Minister Gao's call.
"Yes, it's possible. Quickly, report all their recent activities, where they went, and so on, in a unified manner!"
"Alright, alright, I'll do it now!"
Dean Li hung up and immediately dialed Zhang Demao.
"Come to my office!"
When Zhang Demao arrived at the office, before he could even sit down, Dean Li said:
"Quickly investigate under what circumstances these people developed symptoms, where they went in the days before falling ill, and what they came into contact with that they shouldn't have!"
"Okay, I'll go now, I'll go now!"
Zhang Demao immediately stood up and left the office.
In fact, there was a mature mechanism for infectious diseases. As long as the procedures were followed, all necessary questions could be asked.
Furthermore, the source of the virus could be traced quickly.
Soon, a common answer was obtained.
They had all visited "Guozi Village" for a market day.
This location was quickly and accurately reported to Minister Gao.
Minister Gao immediately made arrangements.
But the reporters couldn't wait. Seeing that the hospital was uncooperative, they staked out the entrance to the Center for Disease Control. Su Dan Novel Network.
Now, Minister Gao had nowhere to hide.
Some matters were bound to be faced eventually.
After a brief review, it was found that the few cases discovered so far had all come into contact with cattle, and the individuals themselves did not know each other and had no significant interactions.
Although the situation was not fully prepared, somehow the news leaked, drawing the attention of the leadership. Minister Gao had to hold a press conference to reassure the public.
Minister Gao certainly understood the gravity of the situation. His current position was a testament to his ability to balance matters and alleviate public concerns, which was crucial.
A press conference had to be held.
"Hey! Quick, look, what's that press conference!"
Furu Hai said while chatting in the living room.
Everyone's attention was drawn to the television screen.
Liu Sandao watched intently.
The television immediately showed a podium where five or six people were seated, their expressions solemn.
On the wooden board behind them, it read: Sandong City Office News Conference.
The people on the podium were speaking, answering reporters' questions. Subtitles appeared on the screen, and the person answering at this moment was Minister Gao.
"There is currently no evidence to suggest human-to-human transmission! We are still conducting further research into this matter."
"Many people are concerned that this virus could be particularly severe if transmitted to children. Is that true?"
Someone asked.
"This is being researched as time goes on. Based on current epidemiological studies and understanding, children are not easily infected!"
Minister Gao's answer was decisive, and his expression showed great confidence.
"Is this cold so serious?"
Guo Xiufang asked.
These past two days, Liu Sandao and Furu Hai had been visiting almost daily.
Furu Hai, in particular, though not conventionally handsome, was very likable in his demeanor.
Seeing him chatting and laughing with Bai Suxiang, Guo Xiufang wished they could get together.
"Listen to what the experts say. Don't worry, look, we're all fine!"
Bai Suxiang said calmly.
"Experts, what good are experts! I think our own judgment is more accurate!"
Bai Fuchi interjected.
He had recovered considerably but, to pass the time, was essentially living on the living room sofa.
Watching television kept him from being too bored.
Liu Sandao remained silent, his gaze fixed on the television screen.
Hearing Bai Fuchi's complaint, he couldn't help but use his divine sense to probe Li Langqing.
If it was confirmed to be a plague, the patients' conditions would certainly become complicated; if the treatment methods were inadequate, the consequences could be fatal.
Furu Hai was busy chatting with Guo Xiufang and wasn't paying much attention to the television.
When celestial beings chat, it's different from talking with mortals; they always feel they have endless things to say.
Just as they were engrossed in conversation, Liu Sandao suddenly approached him and said:
"Furu Hai, we have to go. The company needs us for something!"
"Ah? Oh, okay, okay!"
Furu Hai first looked at Liu Sandao in surprise, then agreed.
"If the company needs something, I'll go too!"
Bai Suxiang immediately chimed in upon hearing about the company.
"You'd better wait at home. We'll go see what the matter is first!"
Liu Sandao stopped her.
"Ah, alright!"
Bai Suxiang said with a sigh. She had thought that after being idle for so long, she would finally have something to do, only to have her newly kindled spark of excitement quickly extinguished.
Furu Hai exchanged pleasantries with Guo Xiufang and Bai Fuchi, then left with Liu Sandao.
"What's the matter? What could be going on at the company that they'd notify you?"
Furu Hai asked.
"It's not the company, we have to go to the hospital!"
"What? Go to the hospital? What for? Aren't they just a few people with colds!"
Furu Hai said grumpily.
"Let's go, you'll know when we get there!"