WB News at 6 - part 2

“Welcome back to WB News at 6. In our next segment we go to Snapper Kar who was interviewing Dr. Steven Rhinehardt (Dr. Rhinehardt) on medical concerns and general precautions. On to you Snapper.”
Screen transitions to Snapper car in a white room sitting in metal frame chair. “Thank you, Courtney. I’m here with renowned geneticist and medical professional Dr. Steven Rhinehardt who is part of the team working on the current medical situation.” The camera pans out revealing Dr. Rhinehardt sitting in a similar chair nearby. “Thank you for agreeing to speak with me. Dr. what can you tell our viewers at home about the current situation from a medical perspective.”
Dr. Steven Rhinehardt: “I am glad to be of assistance.” He turns to address the camera. “In these trying times being informed can better prepare individuals how to deal with a crisis and predict what is to come.” He turns back to Snapper as he continues. “You may have heard terms such as Hypnagogic Hallucinogenic Constructs or HHC’s. They are referring to manifestations of an individuals dreams that take on real form for a time. The dreamer guides the inception of the dream which can manipulate the world around it much as you and I are right now.”
Snapper Kar: “What seems to be the cause of these HHC’s and how are they spread?”
DSR: “After thorough analysis and examination the cause of the HHC’s is substance induced and not due to disease. I can even go further to say we have narrowed it down to the drug commonly referred to as ‘Second Chance’ (Second Chance Drug Information). It allowed the individual using it to re-experience memories or personal fantasies, but continued use led to these dream images intensifying tapping into the individual’s fears and anxieties which account for some of the more nightmarish apparitions encountered more recently.”
SK: “What is being done to combat this ongoing problem?”
DSR: “From an enforcement angle there is an ongoing investigation for those using and selling Second Chance, but in terms of medical interventions currently the only approved drug is Narcam. It prevents the brain from achieving REM sleep, resulting in nights of dreamless sleep where the individual would be unable to have HHC’s manifest. The medication is being provided to any individuals who have taken Second Chance and a version of it is used in apprehending suspects currently experiencing HHC’s.”
SK: “Sounds remarkable. Are there any side effects or medical concerns to be aware of?”
DSR: “Narcam has been used for years for individuals dealing with intense night terrors as a means of guiding the individual to more relaxed sleep state. Though the patient will still be getting sleep there are specific health benefits associated with REM sleep such as memory consolidation for learning new skills and problem solving. Without REM sleep individuals will take longer in both of these tasks. This is in addition to symptoms typically associated with sleep deprivation such as irritability, periods of drowsiness, decreased alertness and feel less motivated to participate in daily activities including exercise.”
SK: “Do you have any recommendations how to deal with these side effects?”
DSR: “To counteract such side effects it is recommended to schedule an additional hour or two of sleep, use public transport or have a designated driver and maintain a consistent sleep routine including giving yourself about an hour to prepare for sleep.”
SK: “I thank you for your time. Before we wrap up is there anything else you can tell us about what is being done to deal with HHCs?”
DSR: “Several hospitals, private clinics and even community centers have become available for the treatment and detox of Second Chance. We’ve had many professionals who provide substance abuse treatment and recovery come into the state to assist. There is a 1-800 number people can use to locate the closest available facility and also a confidential line to report suspected Second Chance use.”
SK: “We thank you for your help and time.” Turns to the camera. “This has been Snapper Karr. Back to you at the studio.”
The screen returns to the newsroom with Courtney Burnett. “Thank you, Snapper. You can check our website for numbers to contact and additional information and precautions while we are all dealing with the HHC emergency.”