Chapter 569: Chapter 569

Jing Shu’s thoughts were drawn to the mysterious items mentioned by Zhou Bapi. For some reason, whenever these things were mentioned, she felt they were related to dimensions.

What new items could they be? With the arrival of the apocalypse, more and more things that didn’t exist in the old world had emerged. Though it was the apocalypse, it was also a new world.

Jin Tianci, in a rare moment of contemplation, said, "It depends on the materials you brought back this time."

Zhou Bapi laughed heartily. "Old Jin, you know the inside information. Everyone says it’s good stuff, and it won’t disappoint you. You know how hard it’s been for the Medicine Association lately. Even full-time employees can’t afford steamed buns; their food is half insects. Look, should we raise the benefits a bit?"

Jing Shu secretly rolled her eyes. The Medicine Association’s benefits are already excellent; half of them can still afford steamed buns! In these times, simply having food is fortunate.

Jin Tianci’s face indeed hardened. "You’re not unaware of how tight food supplies are. Plus, with the recent sharp drop in temperature, research from the scientific department indicates many bacteria can’t survive this weather. Some diseases will naturally decrease. The Medicine Association’s work should also be adjusted, mainly focusing on digestion and immunity, and planting more ginger and the like."

When it came to official business, Zhou Bapi also grew hesitant. His brow furrowed deeply as he seemed lost in thought.

Jin Tianci pondered for a moment, then turned and asked his secretary to bring out the latest report. He stated:

"According to the mortality and disease data, take this back and study it, then formulate medicines according to the ratios.

"By the way, I called you here today because there’s an important matter to discuss.

"Recently, a new apocalyptic species has emerged in the south—parasites that infest the human body. They reproduce frantically inside the body, consuming internal organs, eventually leading to organ failure and death. The mode of transmission is unknown, but its infectivity is low. Family and friends in daily contact with patients have generally not been infected.

"This parasite shows symptoms in its early stages, mainly severe abdominal pain, which is easy to detect. However, known antiparasitic drugs and surgical removal have not been very effective. This is because these parasites are only a few microns in size and hide within the blood... Fortunately, this parasite does not cause secondary infections in others.

"Currently, 940 cases have appeared in the south, with 680 deaths, and the number of patients nationwide is still increasing. The Imperial Capital has ordered a complete lockdown on this information, telling the public it’s just an ordinary parasitic disease. Meanwhile, researchers are working urgently. We in Wu City must also prepare accordingly."

Jing Shu’s eyelids twitched. So the terrifying parasite incident happened in the fourth year of the apocalypse!

Initially, she had only heard about the appearance of these parasites. Since they weren’t contagious and affected individuals mainly experienced symptoms like blood in their stool, the news hadn’t seemed too alarming. It wasn’t until later, when the information could no longer be suppressed, that everyone learned those infected suffered unbearable pain before dying. Despite the terrifying nature of the disease, the government claimed the incidence rate was extremely low—less than one in ten thousand. Besides, with everyone on the brink of starvation, the matter didn’t cause a major stir back then.

Zhou Bapi’s eyes widened in surprise. He hurriedly asked, "Are there any cases in Wu City yet? What measures have been taken? How does the Medicine Association need to cooperate? And is there more detailed information on this parasite?"

Jin Tianci took out another document, handing it to Jing Shu and Zhou Bapi. It listed some current cases. Standing beside them, Jin Tianci continued:

"Wu City hasn’t reported any cases yet, but Xinlan, the Provincial City, has recently seen dozens of cases. I will have the relevant department issue a new announcement to isolate anyone experiencing severe abdominal pain... Then, we’ll wait for the research results from the higher-ups. It would be ideal if they could develop a medication, but if not..."

He sighed, then continued, "More details are in this document. From onset to death, most infected individuals only lived for about ten days. Currently, the longest survival time recorded is 32 days.

"According to the analysis, researchers speculate this parasite incident might be linked to consuming red earthworms, as 99% of these patients had eaten them. The theory is that when these red earthworms, which are only a few micrometers in size, weren’t thoroughly killed during cooking, they mutated into these parasites. These mutated parasites then hid within the human body and began to reproduce extensively. Of course, this is also connected to an individual’s immune system...

"What I’m telling you is all scientific speculation for now. Don’t spread it externally, to avoid causing panic. Jing Shu, your red worm factory should continue normal processing. However, from now on, ensure the red earthworms are cooked a bit longer to completely kill any bacteria."

Jin Tianci mused. Until the truth is confirmed, we can’t discontinue red earthworms as a stable food source. Besides, if only one in ten thousand people gets sick, that’s an acceptable risk. It’s far better than having ten thousand people starve to death.

Jing Shu was genuinely shocked by this news. I never expected the parasite could be related to eating red earthworms! She quickly nodded. "I’ll arrange for the red worm factory to cook them for an extra ten minutes to ensure all bacteria are killed."

I never knew before that this parasitic disease came from eating red earthworms!

I was still wondering if this terrifying parasite would affect our family, but now it seems unlikely. It’s a good thing I planted so many Bodhi Trees. Firstly, for self-protection. Secondly, so I could help friends and relatives if they got infected. Finally, I wouldn’t mind giving some to the government to treat more people—for a reward, of course.

Jing Shu’s face paled again. "Then... could livestock that ate red earthworms also be infected by the parasite?" Sometimes, her livestock ate them too. If the livestock were infected, and then people ate the livestock, wouldn’t they also get infected? Latest content publıshed on 𝔫𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔩⁂𝔣𝔦𝔯𝔢⁂𝔫𝔢𝔱

Jin Tianci shook his head. "I’ve heard that the human body contains a specific gene essential for the parasite’s survival, a gene that livestock lack. Initially, researchers wanted to implant these parasites into chickens and cows, using them as test subjects to find a solution. However, when they discovered livestock lacked this gene, they had no choice but to conduct experiments on humans. So, rest assured, livestock cannot be infected."

Jing Shu breathed a sigh of relief, finally at ease. Her last worry had been dispelled. It seems growing so many Bodhi Trees wasn’t necessary after all.

Although currently only a small number of people are infected, I fear it might spread wildly.

"The higher-ups are taking this very seriously. They’re afraid it might escalate into an epidemic like that infamous one from before," Jin Tianci said gravely. "That situation was initially underestimated, and it later spun out of control... So, this will be a heavy burden for you."

"Alright, alright, I understand."

Zhou Bapi didn’t press Jin Tianci for a reward anymore. If this is really related to red earthworms, how many people will contract this parasitic disease? I need to hurry back and prepare.

"Jing Shu, look at this situation. I was originally supposed to lead the team to the Imperial Capital for the competition, but that doesn’t seem possible now. There are too many urgent matters I need to handle. In three days, you will lead the team to the Imperial Capital for the competition. Good luck! I have faith in you!"