Deadly bee disease hits Jersey

Friday 4th June 2010, 2:57PM BST.

JERSEY’S bee hives are under threat after an outbreak of a highly contagious disease was confirmed in the Island.

American Foulbrood disease has been found in at least one hive and the Island has been declared an infected area, which means that no bees, hives or associated equipment can be moved without a licence. The sale of honey is not affected.

The disease, which is highly contagious and kills developing bees in a hive, can be controlled only by destroying infected combs and bees by burning and disinfecting equipment.

All beekeepers who are not members of the Jersey Beekeeping Association are now legally required to contact the Environment Division so that inspections can be carried out.

• See Friday’s JEP for full story.

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