AN OUTBREAK of a fatal bacterial disease in bees has been detected near Haddington.

American Foulbrood (AFB) was detected in honey bees in East Lothian along with European Foulbrood (EFB).

The outbreaks were highlighted by the East Lothian Beekeepers Association.

They posted a message on social media, which noted the outbreaks – the first of their kind detected in the area in recent years.

The message reads: “This outbreak concerns a number of hives and was discovered by Scottish Government bee inspectors during the delivery of their honey bee health inspection programme, with the diseases being confirmed by SASA on 26 July 2023.

“The beekeeper concerned has been informed of the official confirmation of the diseases.

“They are cooperating with the Scottish Government bee health inspectors.

“The colonies infected with AFB will be humanely euthanised as there is no permitted treatment for the disease in the UK.

“Restrictions are in place in the affected apiaries.

“We are working with the beekeeper to identify the possible origin of this outbreak as well as any possible spread of disease.

“BeeBase registered beekeepers within 3km from the infected apiary will also be alerted of this outbreak via BeeBase.”

No subsequent restrictions in the area have been put in place.

The East Lothian Beekepers Association (ELBA) will hold a talk on notifiable diseases in bees and how to prevent them on August 18.

A spokesperson for the group said: "In light of the difficult circumstances we are facing in East Lothian with regard to the outbreak of American and European Foulbrood, we have arranged for Lorraine Johnston, SRUC (Scotland's Rural College) bee advisor, and Claire Gill, lead bee inspector to come and give us a talk on notifiable disease and prevention.

"We hope all of you will come along to find out everything you need to know from how to identify the diseases to what to do next.

"Even if you are no longer a member of ELBA, but still keep bees, the meeting is open to all."

The talk takes place at The Fraser Centre in Tranent from 7-9.15pm.