American foulbrood is a notifiable bacterial animal disease of honey bees. It is caused by the spore-forming bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. The pathogen only affects bee brood, especially young larvae.
Adult bees do not fall ill, but can spread the resistant spores in the colony and between colonies. The spores can remain infectious for many years and can be transmitted via bees, honeycombs, equipment, honey or food. If left untreated, the disease can lead to the death of entire bee colonies. There is no danger to humans.
The veterinary authorities are currently examining the further measures required to combat American foulbrood. Official announcements on further measures will be made separately.
Beekeepers are asked to check their bee colonies carefully, to observe the applicable animal health regulations and to report any abnormalities immediately. Any local beekeeping operations must be reported to the Office for Health and Consumer Protection of the district of Börde.
No apiaries are to be set up in the vicinity of Bottmersdorf.