Overt Infection with Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus (CBPV) in Two Honey Bee Colonies

Abstract

Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus (CBPV), a widespread honey bee RNA virus, causes massive worker bee losses, mostly in strong colonies. Two different syndromes, with paralysis, ataxia and flight incapacity on one hand and black hairless individuals with shortened abdomens on the other, can affect a colony simultaneously. This case report presents two Apis mellifera carnica colonies with symptoms of paralysis and hairless black syndrome in 2019. Via RT-PCR, a highly positive result for CBPV was detected in both samples. Further problems, such as a Nosema infection and Varroa infestation, were present in these colonies. Therapy methods were applied to colony 1 comprising queen replacement, shook swarm method and Varroa control, whereas colony 2 was asphyxiated after queen loss and colony weakening. After therapy, colony 1 was wintered without symptoms. Beekeeping and sanitary measures can save a CBPV-infected colony, while further complications result in total colony loss.

Honey Bee Health

“…A case report highlights treatment and sanitary measures to save two A. mellifera carnica CBPV-infected colonies before the winter [ 16 ].…”

Veterinary Diagnostic Approach of Common Virus Diseases in Adult Honeybees

“…Comprehensive information on this virus can be found in our case report presenting an overt infection with CBPV in two colonies [ 24 ].…”

“…The bees are carefully examined to find body deformities, wing abnormalities like V-wings or K-wings, changes in color and size, phoretic Varroa mites as well as behavioral, neurological, social or digestive symptoms. Signs of CBPV disease are hairless, black bees and/or neurological symptoms such as trembling, circling or paralysis [ 23 , 24 ]. Abnormal wing position and wing form are shown in case of CBPV or DWV.…”

“…Williams et al describe a ranking in six categories, according to the severity of wing abnormities [ 36 ]. Hairless black abdomens are seen in case of a CBPV infection [ 24 ] or as a result of genetics, alimentation within honeydew flow period or for mechanical reasons. Robbery and fighting as well as maturing in foragers may result in breaking hairs and black abdomens, which, however, only affects individuals, whereas genetics, alimentation and CBPV affect the whole colony.…”

“…According to the list of medical issues, a prognosis is derived, and a treatment plan created. An example in case of an overt CBPV infection can be found in Dittes et al [ 24 ]. Investigations show that asymptomatic healthy colonies may have higher virus loads than diseased colonies [ 54 , 55 ].…”