AFB is a spore forming bacteria unlike EFB. A spore is a survival capsule
with a thick and tough outer wall.  It has been shown that this wall will enable
the AFB spore to survive for tens of years and withstand:
Desiccation.
Chemical agents like acetic acid.
Quite high temperatures e.g. boiling water - only flaming the hive parts to a
coffee colour will destroy them.

As far as I know only gamma radiation will sterilise combs so that they can
be safely used - not something a normal beekeeper can do.

Hope that helps
Bob Gilbert
Tamworth
Staffordshire
England

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