Another challenge could be looming for BC's poultry and egg producers with cases of the H5N1 avian flu identified in Newfoundland

Another challenge could be looming for BC's poultry and egg producers as cases of the H-5-N-1 avian flu have been identified on a farm in Newfoundland.

The president of the Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors Council says members across Canada have been warned to watch for signs of the illness, while producers in Newfoundland are taking additional biosecurity measures to halt any spread.

Matthew Miller describes the situation as ``concerning,'' but says he's reassured that the cases have been identified on an exhibition farm and not at a commercial operation, meaning Canada still retains its designation as free of avian flu.

Poultry and egg production in BC has been hammered by the destructive flooding in the Fraser Valley last month, which the Agriculture Ministry says killed more than 600,000 birds.