Swine flu has been identified in turkeys in Chile. There is a concern that if it infected a bird with avian flu a new mutation could be created which would be easily spread.
An expert has said that it would be quite easy in theory for this to happen as avian flu is deeply embedded fairly nearby, for example in Egypt.
The birds had only mild symptoms, which further concerned virologists. They say that if the birds die, the farmer – and the authorities – more likely to take notice. As it is, ignoring the outbreak leads to a greater likelihood of the two types of flu combining and then spreading.
The World Health Organisation has warned governments to prepare for a fresh outbreak in the next few months.
Some commentators estimate that The swine flu pandemic is likely to last a total of 2-3 years.
