American foulbrood (AFB) disease is the most serious brood disease of honey bees in New South Wales. It is caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. In Australia it has been found in all states. It is a notifiable disease under the NSW Apiaries Act 1985. There is a persistent low level of infection in NSW. Early and accurate diagnosis of this disease is essential if control is to be effective.

The contents of this Primefact include the following:

• Examining brood
• Signs of the disease
• Spread
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Compensation
• Avoiding major disease outbreaks