As I recall,
   Ethylene oxide fumigation has been demonstrated to be an effective way
   to decontaminate AFB infected equipment, if the treatment is done
   thoroughly. The temperature, pressure and concentration of gas are
   important, and have not always been well controlled in the field units
   used for bee equipment. There are problems with stored pollen (it is not
   nutritious to bees after fumigation) and honey (it can contain ethylene
   glycol). Like gamma radiation sterilization, although the spores are
   killed, the scale remains, and tests of the scale will still indicate B.
   larvae spores. There are even greater concerns about operator exposure
   (this even applies to the more controlled chambers used for hospital
   equipment sterilization. As a result, ETO is not registered for use
   against AFB in Canada.
 
   I was surprised to hear that it is approved in Maryland (or is it just
   used?).
 
 
   Kerry Clark, Apiculture Specialist
   B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
   1201 103 Ave
   Dawson Creek B.C.
        V1G 4J2  CANADA          Tel (604) 784-2225     fax (604) 784-2299
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