EUROPEAN
FOULBROOD 

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European Foulbrood (EFB) is a bacterial disease that affects honeybee brood. While not as severe as American Foulbrood, EFB can weaken colonies and impact honey production. If you do suspect foulbrood contact your National Bee Unit Inspector for further advice - This is a reportable disease.

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Symptoms: EFB primarily affects bee larvae in the early stages of development. The infected larvae will turn yellowish-brown and twist into a characteristic "S" shape. As the disease progresses, the larvae will die and form a dried-out, brown scale at the bottom of the cell. Unlike AFB, the scale is not hard and can be easily removed. The infected bees may also have perforated cappings and a spotty brood pattern.

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Treatments: There is no cure for EFB once a colony is infected. However, unlike AFB, EFB-infected colonies can sometimes recover on their own. The best treatment for EFB is to support the colony's immune system by providing proper nutrition, minimizing stress, and ensuring the hive has adequate ventilation. In severe cases, antibiotics such as oxytetracycline or tylosin may be prescribed by a veterinarian or licensed beekeeper.

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Prevention Measures: Preventing EFB is the best strategy to avoid the disease.

 

Here are some prevention measures beekeepers can take:

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Use Clean Equipment: Ensure that all equipment used in beekeeping, including frames and hives, are clean and free from any EFB spores. The use of irradiation, flaming, or chemical treatments can help eliminate spores.

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Practice Good Hygiene: Proper hygiene practices such as hand washing, and wearing clean protective clothing can help prevent the spread of EFB.

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Monitor Colonies: Regular inspections of colonies can help beekeepers detect early signs of EFB. If an infection is detected early, it is easier to contain and prevent the spread of the disease.

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Re-queen: Re-queening can help prevent EFB, as a new queen can introduce a stronger genetic strain that is more resistant to the disease.

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Educate Beekeepers: Educating beekeepers on EFB, its symptoms, and the importance of reporting any suspected outbreaks can help prevent the spread of the disease.

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European Foulbrood is a bacterial disease that can weaken honeybee colonies and impact honey production. While there is no cure for EFB, infected colonies can sometimes recover on their own with proper support. Prevention measures such as good hygiene practices, the use of clean equipment, and regular monitoring of colonies can help reduce the risk of an outbreak.