Chapter 361 Prelude to France's Fight Against the Epidemic

Thirty minutes had passed since Peter Strauss, the Minister of Social Affairs and Health, left the Palace of Versailles. Napoleon remained in his office, immersed in research on the influenza virus.

His eyes scanned through the user interface in front of him, searching for information that could help control the outbreak. Napoleon was determined to understand the disease and find a way to stop it. He occasionally paused to rub his chin, thinking deeply about the information he was reading.

According to the articles, influenza is a viral infection that primarily attacks the respiratory system, and it is highly contagious. The virus originated from birds and other animals such as pigs, and over time, it has mutated and crossed over to infect humans. There are several different strains of the virus, and they can vary significantly, making it a complex and challenging enemy.

The historical records indicate that influenza has been responsible for numerous pandemics throughout history, with the most notorious being the 1918 flu pandemic which resulted in millions of deaths worldwide. Since then, there have been several other significant outbreaks, each caused by a different strain of the virus.

The virus is known to spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can also survive on surfaces for a short period. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue, and while most people recover within a week or two, it can be severe or even fatal, particularly in older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Understanding the nature of the virus was crucial for Napoleon as he worked to develop a strategy to contain the outbreak and protect his people. He knew that time was of the essence and that every moment counted. He doesn't want his empire to end with an epidemic.

He grabbed the telephone on his desk and dialed the Minister of Interior, a position held by his brother, Lucien Bonaparte. Immediately after, the phone line connected, and Napoleon spoke urgently but clearly, "Lucien, it's me. We've got a crisis on our hands."

"What is it, brother?" Lucien asked.

"There's a virus outbreak in the regions of Provence and Languedoc. We need to act immediately to control the situation and prevent it from becoming a nationwide epidemic," Napoleon explained, his voice tense but composed.

Lucien, fully grasping the severity of the situation, responded immediately, "I'll be there as soon as possible."

Hanging up the phone, a person entered his office. It was the Minister of Finance.

"Your Imperial Majesty, I saw the Minister of Health and Social Affairs entering and walking out of your office and he wore a serious expression. Is there something that I should know about?"

Napoleon simply nodded his head.

"There is one, there is an influenza outbreak in the southern mainland France. I want you to prepare the national bank in case we need to allocate emergency funds to address this situation. And in the case of a news spread throughout France and the people started panicking, I want you to limit the withdrawal of funds to prevent a run on the banks. Ensure stability and maintain public confidence in our financial system."

"I understand. Thank you for sharing this information, Your Imperial Majesty."

"You don't have to thank me for doing the job. Just make sure everything is in place and ready for any potential outcomes. We need to be proactive and prepared for all scenarios," Napoleon instructed.

The Minister of Finance nodded in agreement, "I will ensure that all necessary precautions are taken, and the national bank is ready to respond effectively to the situation. We will do everything in our power to maintain stability and support the government's efforts to contain the outbreak." "Good," Napoleon responded, "Keep me updated on any developments and make sure you're available for the emergency meeting later. We need all hands on deck."

"Absolutely, Your Imperial Majesty. I will not let you down," the Minister of Finance assured before leaving the office to execute his orders.

With the Minister of Finance gone, Napoleon took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. He knew the next few days and weeks would be critical in managing the outbreak and preventing it from spiraling out of control.

Another person entered his office, this time it was his daughter, Daphne.

"Father. Uhm…It seems like your ministers are serious about something. What's happening?"

"Nothing serious, there's just a few hiccups. You don't have to concern yourself with these matters," Napoleon replied.

Daphne looked down as the words of her father sounded cold and dismissive. She bit her lip, torn between the desire to respect his wishes and the nagging worry that plagued her.

"Well, Father, I hope whatever you are dealing with, I know you'll deal with it effectively. You always do."

Napoleon lifted up his gaze, meeting hers. And it was there he realized that he had inadvertently made her daughter feel sidelined. He had spoiled his daughters rotten, always ensuring they had his attention whenever they needed it. This sudden shift in his behavior due to the crisis had created an unintended distance.

He straightened up, his expression softening as he recognized the need to reassure her.

"Daphne, I didn't mean to sound dismissive. It's just that I want to shield you from the stress and burden of these state affairs. I want you to save it once you are actually leading your own domain. You know, Canada."

Daphne's expression changed slightly as she sensed the sincerity in her father's voice... "I understand, Father. But I don't want to be completely in the dark either. Still, if you don't want to tell me, that's fine. I guess I'll learn about it in a few days or two."

Napoleon chuckled, realizing that she may learn about the influenza outbreak in the coming days. "You are right. Now, why don't you call your brother Francis here? I have to talk to him, it's related to what's happening right now. And I believe he should be in the loop as well."

Daphne nodded, her expression showing understanding. "Of course, Father. I'll go find him and bring him here right away." With that, she left the office, leaving Napoleon alone with his thoughts once again.