Brooke Decker
Pollinator Health Specialist
State Apiculturist
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM)

American Foul Brood Announcement

November 30, 2021

American Foul Brood (AFB) Paenibacillus larva has been confirmed at an apiary located within a 5-mile radius of Newbury, Vermont.

The origin of this highly contagious honey bee disease is currently unknown. Traceback investigation is under way.

Beekeepers should remain diligent in their hive inspections, especially in the spring. Learning to identify the clinical symptoms of AFB is crucial. Hives should be closely examined for scale and other symptoms. Rope tests, field test kits or laboratory diagnosis should be performed on any suspect brood cells. Equipment should only be reused if clinical symptoms are absent.

More information on AFB can be found in the following article from Michigan State University. https://pollinators.msu.edu/resources/beekeepers/diagnosing-and-treating-american-foulbrood-in-honey-bee-colonies/

Contact the VAAFM immediately if any AFB symptoms are suspected or identified.

Brooke Decker
Pollinator Health Specialist / State Apiculturist 802-272-6688
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