There must be more to the varroa-DWV story than this.  In my bees, there is
a clear correlation between mite population and incidence of young bees with
deformed wings.  I use deformed wing bees as the primary indicator that I
need to deal with a mite problem pronto.

It is not necessary for DWV to be able to reproduce in varroa, or even live
in varroa outside the gut.  The personal hygiene habits of the mite are
probably less than perfect.  Do they wash their feet thoroughly after
visiting the feces pile and do they disinfect their fangs between meals?

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