Chapter 371 At Last Good News
Day 10: After confirming the production of antibodies in mice without causing disease, the team began designing the vaccine prototype. This involved choosing adjuvants, substances that enhance the body's immune response to the vaccine, and stabilizers to prolong the vaccine's shelf-life.
Day 11-12: The vaccine prototype was then tested on a small group of healthy adult volunteers from the hospital staff, starting with low doses. These initial human trials were critical to ensure that the vaccine did not cause adverse reactions in humans.
Day 13: With no immediate adverse reactions observed, the dosage was gradually increased. Volunteers were monitored for any signs of illness or discomfort.
Day 14: Two weeks into the process, the early morning hours were spent analyzing the data from the human trials. The team looked for evidence of an immune response similar to that observed in the mice…
And in the afternoon, Dr. Durant scheduled a meeting with Francis to make a detailed report about their vaccine development. There, he would learn if they were able to make an effective vaccine or not.
In his office at Saint-Roch hospital. Francis was on a call with his father, Napoleon.
"Yes, Father. I will get the report later in the afternoon. You will be the first to know," Francis assured.
"Let's hope that it's the good news, Francis. You see, your brother and sisters here in Versailles are missing you," Napoleon said with a chuckle.
"Do they really miss me that much?" Francis scoffed softly. "Well, whatever you say father. For me, once I'm done with my task here in Toulouse, we will spend that family dinner you mentioned to me, and then go to Germany and be with my beloved, Charlotte."
"Sorry for delaying your reunion," Napoleon said with an apologetic voice.
"Not at all, father. Charlotte has been waiting for me for a long time, a two or three weeks would not make any difference," Francis replied, a hint of fatigue creeping into his voice. "I will see you soon."
Francis ended the call, his thoughts already turning to the upcoming meeting with Dr. Durand. He glanced at the clock, the minutes ticking away slowly as he awaited the crucial report that could potentially signal a turning point in the epidemic.
Later that afternoon, Dr. Durand entered Francis's office, his face betraying nothing of the news he carried. He laid out the papers before Francis, who quickly scanned the contents.
"The vaccine has elicited a robust immune response in the initial trials," Dr. Durand began. "The increased dosage did not result in adverse effects, and the antibody levels in the volunteers are promising."
Francis exhaled a sigh of relief, feeling the weight of weeks of uncertainty lifts slightly. "And the efficacy?"
"That will require more time to assess fully," Dr. Durand cautioned. "We need to monitor the volunteers for several weeks to see if the immunity is sustained and if they remain resistant to infection."
"Few more weeks? That's a lot of time and my father wanted me back to Versailles before the end of August," Francis said.
"We have no choice, Your Imperial Highness We must ensure the vaccine's safety and effectiveness before wider distribution," Dr. Durand replied with a firm tone, understanding the urgency yet emphasizing the need for due diligence. "Any rush to declare success could lead to dire consequences if we're wrong. We could possibly kill more than the virus has taken."
"That's going to be a catastrophic failure if that were to happen. Well, Dr. Durand, you have received every support that you need from the government, were you satisfied?"
"Yes, Your Imperial Highness, they were delivered on time."
Francis nodded in satisfaction. "Good. What are the next steps?"
"We proceed with the second phase of trials, expanding the number of volunteers and beginning to assess the logistics of mass production," Dr. Durand explained. "If the second phase is successful, we can request emergency use authorization."
"Make it so," Francis said firmly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You have been vital since the outbreak, Mr. Durand. You have been working closely with patient zero and the research team without rest. France owes you a great deal."
Dr. Durand offered a tired smile. "Thank you, Your Highness. It is my duty, and I shall continue to do my utmost."
"You know, if this vaccine of yours began to make miracles, you can be a recipient of the Legion of Honor."
Hearing that, Dr. Durand's eyes widened. Legion of Honor is the highest French decoration a civilian could ever receive if he or she had done a remarkable deed for France. It was an honor that came directly from the Emperor himself.
"You see, I noticed that not only are you a doctor, but you are also a researcher. You know that I am also a researcher, though I focus a lot on engineering. I commend you for your diligence and innovation during these trying times," Francis added.
Dr. Durand nodded, clearly appreciative of the recognition from someone who understood the rigor of scientific work.
"That means a great deal, coming from Your Imperial Highness. I am merely contributing my part to the greater good of the empire and the health of its people."
"Okay, one last thing, Dr. Durand. Is my presence here in the hospital still needed or am I free to go back to Versailles?" Francis asked, this was the question he had been meaning to ask after learning of the good news.
"Well, Your Imperial Highness, you have been staying at the hospital for two weeks. So why don't we conduct a medical check-up to see whether you have contracted the virus or not? After we confirm you are in good health, you should be free to return to Versailles. Though I believe you will still have to follow safety protocols."
"Can you be the doctor to check me up?" Francis requested, placing his trust in Dr. Durand's expertise.
"Absolutely, Your Highness. It would be my pleasure. Do you want me to conduct the medical examination in an hour?"
"Yes, that would be suitable. Thank you," Francis replied, understanding the need to not delay his potential departure any longer than necessary.
***
An hour later, Dr. Durand returned with his medical kit in hand. He conducted a thorough examination of Francis, taking blood samples, checking his vitals, and ensuring that no symptom or sign of the virus was present in him. After a meticulous check, Dr. Durand cleared Francis, finding him in good health.
"Your Imperial Highness, I am pleased to report that you are in excellent health. There is no sign of the virus, and you are free to travel to Versailles, provided you adhere to the recommended precautions during your journey," Dr. Durand announced.
Francis felt a weight lift off his shoulders. "Thank you, Dr. Durand. I am in your debt. I'll ensure that all safety protocols are strictly followed on my way back."
"It is my honor to serve, Your Highness. Safe travels, and do not hesitate to contact me should you require any assistance or if there are any concerns during your journey," Dr. Durand responded, giving a respectful bow.
With the medical examination out of the way, Francis made the necessary arrangements for his departure, eager to reunite with his family back in Versailles. He has full confidence in Durand's expertise and so this epidemic is good as done.
This 𝓬ontent is taken from f(r)eeweb(n)ovel.𝒄𝒐𝙢