A previously unknown virus is discovered in an isolated population of mammals. Several mammals are found to be infected with the virus but display few symptoms. Based on this observation, the mammal population is likely to have been exposed to this virus
A) for a long time, as several mammals are found to be infected.
B) for a short time, as the virus has not yet evolved enough to make the hosts seriously ill.
C) for a long time, as the hosts have developed resistance and/or the virus has low virulence.
D) for a short time, as the viral infection has not had enough time to produce symptoms in the infected hosts.
E) for an indeterminate length of time. The information provided does provide any evidence either way.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The observation that several mammals are infected but display few symptoms suggests that the host population has likely developed some level of resistance or tolerance to the virus, or that the virus itself has a naturally low virulence. This scenario typically occurs when a virus and its host population have coexisted for a long period, allowing for evolutionary adjustments in both the virus and the host.

A Previously Unknown Virus Is Discovered in an Isolated Population