Chapter 1607
Dr. Blanc turned and motioned for Lily to come forward. He tapped his keyboard, and several data lines appeared on the monitor. Lily squinted, studying them.
"With your background in traditional herbs, we hope you can offer a different perspective and collaborate with us to address this virus," Dr. Blanc said. After a moment's reflection, Lily added, "May I review the earlier research data, especially that concerning the virus itself?"
"We don't fully understand the virus," Dr. Blanc replied with a sigh. "Since it hasn't spread domestically and we've contained it, we have minimal samples for study. We lack a proper reference value."
Lily frowned in confusion. Why would a lack of reference value exist if they possessed virus samples, even if not from the main transmission chain?
Dr. Blanc explained, "Our research indicates the virus mutates and evolves rapidly. However, because our samples are from the end of transmission chains, the virus is relatively weak and sensitive. We worry that any treatment effective against this variation might not work against a stronger one."
After a pause, he turned to Lily. "This is why we hope to integrate modern medicine and traditional herbal remedies. Traditional approaches don't focus on the virus's appearance or characteristics but rather on the body's response and the immune system. I'm not an expert in traditional herbs, so please correct me if I'm wrong." He smiled.
Lily nodded. He was right. Traditional herbal remedies differed significantly from laboratory-synthesized pharmaceuticals. Modern medicine targets specific organs and their interactions with a virus, while traditional herbs heal in ways less easily observable. Understanding their mechanisms requires considerable research; their effects take time to manifest, and preparation is complex, requiring meticulous attention to detail, such as slow simmering over low heat. The lack of immediate results often leads to skepticism, and unscrupulous individuals have exploited this, eroding public trust. The convenience and immediate effects of modern medicine have consequently overshadowed traditional herbal practices.
"Do you have any infected patients under your care?" Lily asked after carefully reviewing the data.
Dr. Blanc fell silent, seemingly pondering the question. A few seconds later, he exclaimed, "Yes, we do!"
Dr. Morris, standing nearby, appeared anxious and tried to intervene, "Dr. Blanc..."
But Dr. Blanc waved him off and looked at Lily. "I'll take you to the patient."
Lily followed him out of the office, with Dr. Morris trailing behind. Despite his reluctance, Lily didn't dwell on it. This plague was unusual; the virus's contagion and transmission method remained unknown. The lack of public knowledge reflected this limited understanding. The secrecy was, understandably, a precaution. Dr. Morris's reservations were therefore quite understandable.