> I have a rather urgent issue that needs your scientific and practical
> advice. Here in Fiji, we have had AFB for at least 25 years, and probably 
> much
> longer. However, the government Department of Agriculture's practice is
> to burn any hive that has proven to have AFB spores as identified in a
> laboratory, EVEN IF THE HIVE APPEARS HEALTHY.

Another study to have a look at is found at 
https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/items/01-048

Also have a look at https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/items/98-144  In this 
document it refers to the honey test.  This is a very good tool which you 
could look at implementing.  If interested, I will arrange for a copy for 
you.

The last thing you want to do is get on the chemical treadmill.  Even though 
the first reference I gave used oxytetracycline in part of the trial, I 
would forget about using antibiotics.   You do not have EFB in Fiji so AFB 
will be easy to recognise.

As you have small numbers of hives, I would be looking at implementing a 
barrier system.  This works effectively in tracking infected hives.  I use 
one and can vouch for the system I use.  There are all sorts of barrier 
systems.  You need to choose the one that suits you.

I would be suggesting that you only destroy hives that have clinical signs. 
You can use the shake method but you will need to do effective monitoring of 
those hives for a long time afterwards and cull those that show clinical 
signs.

I have heard that the AFB is only in Viti Levu and not other islands.  Is 
that correct?

Trevor Weatherhead
AUSTRALIA

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