Which method is advised for treating American Foulbrood?

Treating American Foulbrood (AFB), a highly contagious and deadly bacterial disease affecting honey bee larvae, emphasizes the importance of effectively eliminating the source of the infection to prevent its spread. The recommended approach involves burning infected frames and scorching the hive equipment. This method is the only reliable way to ensure that the disease-causing spores are completely eradicated, as AFB bacteria can survive for a long time in the hive and frames.

While maintaining a strong colony, feeding the colony, or adding brood and bees might help manage some other bee diseases or strengthen the hive overall, they do not address the core issue with AFB. These methods could unintentionally spread the disease further, as they do not eliminate the spores that can remain viable for decades. Therefore, the secure and effective treatment against American Foulbrood is to destroy infected materials, ensuring that healthy colonies are not at risk from residual contamination.