Alarm in Hof: American foulbrood is forcing the city to take stricter measures!

Alarm in Hof: American foulbrood is forcing the city to take stricter measures!

There are current warning signs for beekeeping in the city of Hof, Bavaria. A new case of American foulbrood, a highly contagious bacterial infectious disease that affects bee brood, has been discovered. This development is forcing the authorities to tighten the existing measures to contain this animal disease. The veterinary office has now expanded the restricted area set up on June 5, 2025 and appeals to beekeepers to show increased attention and consistently adhere to the protective measures. This disease does not pose a threat to humans, but has a huge impact on the health of bee colonies, which is of significant importance for agricultural pollination. This is a serious problem, especially in times when the environment and biodiversity are challenged.

The new regulations in the restricted area, which have been in force since June 23, 2025, are clear: the transport and movement of bees, honeycomb, wax, honey and used beekeeping equipment are prohibited. Bringing bee colonies into the restricted area is also prohibited. This concerns an area between Oberkotzau and Untere Vorstadt, in which no dead bees, honeycombs or honey may be moved within a radius of at least one kilometer around the newly identified apiary. The city of Hof's goal is to prevent the spread of American foulbrood and to protect bee populations, which is proving to be a huge challenge.

Early containment is crucial

A restricted area was set up a month ago to control the spread. The highly infective nature of the bee disease was already established back then in the Moschendorf district. In Augsburg there were also reports of two bee colonies affected by the disease at the end of June. Cases have also been documented in the Regen district and in Zirndorf this year. Unchecked growth of this disease could have devastating consequences for the local bee population and thus for the entire regional agriculture.

Beekeepers are facing major challenges during this time, as American foulbrood is subject to reporting requirements in accordance with the regulations of the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection. The control guidelines provide for timely detection and effective rehabilitation of affected apiaries. More and more beekeepers are asked to find out more about the disease and take preventative measures. On the website of the Rhineland Beekeepers Association you will find valuable information and guidelines on how to combat this serious bee disease.

The current situation in Hof is an urgent sign: the health of our bees is crucial for ensuring long-term pollination performance, which makes many agricultural crops dependent on their existence. It is time to pull together and take the challenges that nature presents us seriously.