You are in > Home > News & Events > News > Good practice crucial to prevent further spread of bee disease, says SAC expert

Good practice crucial to prevent further spread of bee disease, says SAC expert

SAC News Release Ref. No: 11N111
Published: 23 Sep 2011

Beekeeper working with hive (opens in new window)

A bee expert from SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) is warning bee keepers to remain vigilant to prevent the further spread of the bee disease Nosema ceranae, after confirmation of Scotland’s first ever cases was announced today.

Following the news from Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) of the three confirmed cases, SAC Bee Advisory Officer Graeme Sharpe says beekeepers should ensure they recognise the signs of Nosema ceranae so it can be treated promptly. The key sign to look out for is soiling inside and on the front of a hive.

Graeme also echoes SASA’s advice that good husbandry practices, such as sterilising or replacing the comb are vital in preventing the further spread of the disease.

Graeme said: “It was really inevitable that Nosema ceranae would be confirmed in Scotland sooner or later, given that many cases have been have already been recorded in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“While the disease does not pose a risk to human health or to honey quality or safety, it is vital that it is prevented from spreading if we are to avoid the further decline of the honeybee. The disease shortens bees’ lifespan by affecting their digestion. There is a seasonal trend to infection, with low levels during summer, a small peak during autumn and a slow rise in infection in winter. In the early spring, levels of infection increase rapidly when brood-rearing starts and flight is limited due to low temperatures.”

Any bee keeper who suspects their colony is affected by Nosema ceranae can contact Graeme for advice at SAC’s Ayr Disease Surveillance Centre on 01292 520318, or speak to SASA.

Comments

blog comments powered by Disqus

News Release Contacts

SAC Contact

Mr Graeme Sharpe
Bee Advisory Officer
SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) Work SAC, Food Hall, Auchincruive,
Ayr
KA6 5HW
TelWork 01292 525375

Add to Address Book | Help

News Release Issued By

Ms Jane Smernicki
Head of Communications
SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) Work SAC, West Mains Road,
Edinburgh
EH9 3JG
TelWork 0131 535 4331

Add to Address Book | Help