By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Widespread Infestation and Immediate Response
Bee colonies in north east England are experiencing the worst outbreak of American foulbrood (AFB) in a decade. The National Bee Unit (NBU) has reported that over 30 colonies have been infected, marking a significant resurgence of this lethal disease. AFB, a bacterial infection, targets young bee larvae, ultimately leading to the death of entire colonies. John Canning from the Cleveland Beekeepers Association emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that once AFB is detected, the only effective solution is to burn the affected colony to prevent further spread.
In June, a major outbreak was identified in a 10km square area near Guisborough, with over 30 colonies infected. This incident is the largest of its kind in the UK since 2014, when 33 colonies were affected in Norfolk. Recently, another infected colony was discovered near Redcar. Mr. Canning believes that the Guisborough outbreak has impacted two apiaries, each containing multiple hives. If left untreated, AFB causes infected brood to dry out and form hard scales at the bottom of cells, which can persist and spread the infection.
The Threat of American Foulbrood and Preventive Measures
There are two types of foulbrood disease, European foulbrood, which is more common in the UK and sometimes treatable, and American foulbrood, which is invariably fatal to bee colonies. Mr. Canning highlighted the long term threat posed by AFB, comparing its spores to anthrax in their resilience. These spores can survive for up to 30 years and can reactivate if contaminated equipment is reused. Beekeepers are legally required to notify the NBU upon discovering an infected colony.
The NBU's policy of compulsory destruction of infected colonies has significantly reduced the number of AFB cases from several thousand annually in the 1940s to fewer than 100. Despite this, AFB spores can survive in honey for decades, posing a continuous risk. Beekeepers are advised against feeding honey to bees, as it might contain AFB spores. While the recent discovery of the outbreak is concerning, Mr. Canning expressed cautious optimism that early detection and strict measures would help control the situation.
