American Foulbrood-Old and Always New Challenge

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Microbiology
• Apiculture Science
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• American foulbrood (AFB) is a highly contagious bacterial disease affecting honey bee larvae (Apis mellifera).
• The causative agent's resistance and pathogenicity pose significant epizootiological and economic threats to beekeeping worldwide.
• AFB is recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) as a highly dangerous infectious animal disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated overview of American foulbrood (AFB).
• To consolidate current knowledge on AFB etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies.
• To emphasize preventive measures and good beekeeping practices for bee health and biodiversity.

Main Methods:

• Review of the latest scientific literature on American foulbrood.
• Compilation of data on etiology, clinical signs, and diagnostic methods (microbiological and molecular).
• Analysis of treatment options and differential diagnostics for AFB.

Main Results:

• Detailed information on the etiology of the bacterial agent responsible for AFB.
• Description of key clinical signs for identifying AFB infections in honey bee colonies.
• Overview of both traditional and advanced molecular diagnostic techniques for AFB detection.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of AFB relies on understanding its etiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic methods.
• Implementing preventive strategies and good beekeeping practices is crucial for controlling AFB spread.
• Protecting honey bee health through AFB management contributes to global biodiversity.