Answer:
A). Explain some of the reasons for downplaying the seriousness of the situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
As per the given excerpt from 'The Hot Zone', the author includes this paragraph most likely to 'describe and demonstrate a few of the reasons for reducing the seriousness of the situation'.
The paragraph displays the effects or reactions if people learn about the hazard or danger that the 'Ebola virus' could bring to the place. This revelation could create panic('mothers screaming 'where are my children', jams heading, etc.) and among the people and therefore, the truth is required to be kept. The author intends to display some reasons that why the seriousness or intensity of the situation was being downplayed by not revealing it to people as it may worsen the situation. Thus, option A is the correct answer.