Stocks opened higher this morning, but sank deep into negative territory in the afternoon. The averages attempted to recover some ground late in the session, but with limited success. Earlier today sentiment seemed somewhat optimistic. However, the mood turned apprehensive, as traders worried that a deadly virus in China might be difficult to contain. Of note, the virus has made its way to a number of countries, and a second person in the U.S. was recently diagnosed with the illness.