"Hot wax dipping has been shown to kill or encapsulate (render harmless) AFB
spores."

An experienced and highly respected beekeeper in England, the late George Vickery, once experimentally (and illegally) melted down comb from a hive infected with AFB and made fresh foundation from it. He carefully monitored the hive into which he put the foundation but there was no sign of AFB arising.  In the UK, suspected AFB MUST be reported to the Inspectorate. If the infection is confirmed, a 'standstill order' is imposed to prevent equipment being moved elsewhere and the Inspector will, as soon as possible, kill the bees, dig a hole and burn and bury all the contents of the hive and scorch all the hive boxes with a blow lamp. This has reduced AFB in the UK to a rarity, although I know some would say that we should let Darwin select for resistance!  In order to avoid beekeepers being reluctant to report suspicious hives because of fear of the financial loss, their annual subscription to the BKA includes insurance with Bee Diseases Insurance which pays out at a standard rate for losses by destruction. BDI is run by beekeepers for beekeepers. Any surplus is directed towards bee research. It has been running successfully for about 70 years.

Chris 


 

 

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