Chile destroys 90K turkey eggs over swine flu, says virus’ spread among the birds contained

Chile ditches 90K turkey eggs in swine flu measure

SANTIAGO, Chile — Chilean authorities say they have destroyed 90,000 turkey eggs since swine flu was detected in the birds two weeks ago.

Victor Venegas, director of the Agriculture and Livestock Service, said Thursday the outbreak in turkeys has been contained, but a quarantine will remain in place for two more weeks.

Swine flu was detected last month on two private turkey farms. Tests showed it was the same virus that affects humans, rather than a deadlier strain.

World health authorities worry a more dangerous and easily transmitted strain could emerge if it combines again with avian flu, which is far more deadly but tougher to pass along.

The Health Ministry says swine flu has killed 130 people and infected more than 12,000 in Chile.