Harry Goudie wrote:
 
> I notice that the instructions on Bayvarol and Apistan require that the user
> wears gloves when handling these substances.  I also note that many
> subscribers to this list do not wear gloves when examining their bees.  It
> seems to me that if you use any of these chemicals then the whole hive,
> frames etc  will be contaminated with these substances and you must surely
> be exposed to them.
> Can anyone tell me what the symptoms are of Flumethrin or Fluvalinate
> poisoning are?  Has there been any reports  of health problems associated
> with any of these products?
 
This is an interesting question.  The only time I ever tried inserting Apistan
with gloves was the first time, or rather at the beginning of the first time.
I found it quite impossible to separate the strips or fold the Apistan tabs
with gloves.  I reasoned that if tiny honey bees could rub up against them
continually, I certainly was in no danger by handling them once.  I would be
most surprised if any health problems have ever been found with Apistan strips
handled in this way.  But let's see what the list answers here.
 
However, in removing them I always use gloves and a hive tool, mainly because
of the honey and beeswax buildup around the tabs sitting on top bars.
 
Ted Fischer
Dexter, Michigan USA