I have a general question regarding procedures when working
with bees and minimizing spreading germs, mites, whatever. It seems
that with the T-mite and V-mite infestations, bees are stressed to
the limit. This increases the likelyhood that a hive will be sick and
contagious or weak and susceptible.
 
        It may be that the general hygenic practices of the beekeeper
will need to be improved as it seems the honey bee is becoming
domesticated at least until the V-mite and T-mite can be controlled
or withstood. Granted some practices proposed would not be pratical
for commercial beekeepers or all hobbyists.
 
        Things I have heard are bulleted below. Please share any
ideas about practices known or used as they relate to activity from:
 
        A. Hive to hive
 
        B. Apiary to apiary.
 
with regard to:
 
        1. Beekeeper
                hands
                gloves
                                o wearing disposalble
                                  latex gloves and replaced
                                  after each hive.
                outfit
 
        2. Tools
                Hive tool
                                o sterilize hive tool by
                                  plunging it into the
                                  smoker and stoking after
                                  each use.
                Smoker
                Decapping fork
                other items
                etc.
 
        3. Medication dispensers amd medication
                Partially used strips
                Partially used patties
                Partially used menthol
                dispensers
                etc.
 
        4. Feed and feeders
                Feeders
                Honey Frames
                sugar syrup expiration
 
        5. Brood exchange
 
 
        6. Foundation moving from hive to hive
 
 
        7. Mandated Inspections
 
        8. Foundation replacement or cleaning
                                o replace wax brood foundation
                                  every 5 years
 
        9. Extrators and Extraction
 
        10. Transport
                Trucks
                Dollies
 
        11. What else?
 
        Thanks in advance. Lets hear from some lurkers as well!