Hi All

The thread I am following here is the destruction of colonies and flaming of
hives for EFB

There have been numerous replies both on and off list but for simplicity I
will not name them.

> Fantastic, Dave!  Since you think that EFB infected hives should be
> destroyed and not sterilized then you must have the elusive data that I
have
> been seeking on how long EFB remains infective in equipment (it is NOT
spore
> forming).  Surely you wouldn't advocate something as extreme as
destruction
> without knowing such a basic fact.

I do not have "evidence" or data...My information is anecdotal...I have been
collating it mentally for several years based on information passed to me by
various bees officers and other contacts in UK.

The official standpoint in UK on EFB is light infestations may be treated
with terramycin and given fresh foundation. Heavy infestations are destroyed
as for AFB.

I have never experienced AFB or EFB personally...AFB is rare in UK but EFB
is increasing as a secondary effect of varroa and/or it's treatment.

The gist of what I have heard is that although colonies survive with
treatment they never seem (other peoples subjective observations) to perform
as well as expected in comparison to healthy colonies and there is a risk of
spreading infection.

I have no room for under performance...I want healthy, vigorous bees. A
blanket destruction policy for all Foulbrood diseases would eventually
eliminate them.

I admit, that to some, the cost would be high (particularly in USA).

It is only the treatment that allows the long term survival of EFB
(regardless of propagation method).

Best Regards, Dave Cushman
G8MZY
Email: [log in to unmask]
Website...Beekeeping and Bee Breeding
http://website.lineone.net/~dave.cushman