Buzzing Back with a Vengeance: American Foulbrood Surges in Local Bee Colonies
The Unwelcome Return
Recurring Cases of American Foulbrood in Bee Populations - 'Low-intensity' Infestations - Additional instance of bee torpor – 'subdued occurrence'
American Foulbrood in our beloved bees is making a comeback! After a two-year hiatus, the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region has witnessed six destructive outbreaks in 2024, with an additional two this year. Officials report more outbreaks are likely as veterinary offices in Schwerin warned of a rising number of affected colonies.
Hot Spots and Measures Taken
All confirmed cases of American Foulbrood so far have occurred in the Mecklenburgische Seenplatte district, with the most recent outbreak detected as recently as April 11. The area was suddenly swarming with bee colonies affected in Neubrandenburg/Fritscheshof and Sponholz, leading to the establishment of a control zone with a three-kilometer radius. All bee colonies within the zone will undergo examination according to the district's general decree on April 24.
Bee Warriors: The Ministry's Response
Despite the alarming spread, the Ministry of Agriculture in Schwerin insists the infection level remains low. This new wave of American Foulbrood is largely due to their increased examination of bee colonies for the pathogen. The annual testing of 180 beekeeping operations in the region has significantly reduced the rate of infected operations, with the average dropping from 6% in 2015 to 1.4% in 2023, and a slight rise to 3.9% in 2024. The ministry warns that, despite the drop, American Foulbrood infections can still be devastating to honeybee colonies.
No Rest for the Weary (but maybe for the Bees)
Bees infected with American Foulbrood can be restored by a method called artificial swarming. Healthy colonies with spores of the pathogen but no sick bees can potentially be revived through this process. Unfortunately, weak colonies and infected colonies are usually destroyed. It's important to note that the detection of pathogens in a colony does not necessarily indicate an outbreak. The responsible veterinary office determines when an outbreak has occurred after identifying sick animals.
Foulbrood: A Sneaky Invader
American Foulbrood is highly contagious, able to wipe out entire colonies if left unchecked. Beekeepers must remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to protect their hives.
More resources on American Foulbrood and local regulations can be found at the Landwirtschaftskammer (Chamber of Agriculture) and your local veterinary office. Keeping informed and adhering to preventative practices is key to combating the spread of this perilous infectious disease.
EC countries need to implement stringent health policies regarding bee health and wellness, focusing on the prevention and management of American Foulbrood, a contagious and deadly medical-condition affecting honeybee colonies. The science behind understanding and combating American Foulbrood can provide valuable insights for the development of effective health policies in this area, ensuring the health and sustainability of bee populations across Europe.
