Bee diseases are investigated at the Regional Veterinary Laboratories. Diseases seen include American Foul Brood, European Foul Brood and many viral diseases affecting both adults and larvae.

Diagnosis

Clinical signs and demonstration of causal agent.

Specimens required

Adult bee diseases

1. Preferably 30 adult bees submitted live at ambient temperature for microbiology. Bees should be submitted in aerated containers with a small amount of a candied mixture of sugar and honey.
2. If only dead specimens are obtainable, submit chilled for microbiology.

Larval diseases

1. Four (4) air dried larval smears.
2. A brood comb sample containing diseased larvae, submitted chilled for microbiology.