The NCIS winter finale has the cast worrying about a virus that has infected eight young children all connected to the military.

The NCIS team fears that the epidemic could be a case of bioterrorism, or the intentional release of the illness. The disease, which has infected kids all within 30 miles of D.C., includes symptoms of a high fever and breathing difficulties.

"I mean what better way to terrorize military personnel than through their kids," newcomer Ellie Bishop says.

The news instantly turned Abby Sciuto from cheerful to intensely worried.

Although not familiar with this type of investigation, the concerned team has to find out where the virus started and more importantly how to stop it.

"It's not our usual case but it is Navy and Marine Corp families," Leroy Jethro Gibbs says. "They want us in on the investigation... Split up. Get to hospitals, interview the parents. Talk to the kids. Retrace their steps. Let's go."

On a lighter note, the episode teaser also reveals what some of the crew plans to do for the upcoming holidays. While Tony DiNozzo will spend time basking in the Jamaican sun, Bishop will enjoy a mellow holiday with her family in Oklahoma.

"My mom cooking, my husband and brothers arguing football," she explains.

The episode, titled "Homesick," airs on Tuesday at 8 p.m. EST on CBS.

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