The analysis suggests that the virus likely started spreading among cows in December or early January, with a single introduction from wild birds. The extensive genetic diversity observed in the virus infecting cattle indicates that it has had ample time to evolve.
Genetic Diversity and Viral Evolution
The genetic diversity observed in the virus infecting cattle suggests that it has had significant time to evolve. This indicates that the virus likely began spreading among cows in December or early January, following a single introduction from wild birds.