Extended Restricted Zone New outbreaks of American Foulbrood in two additional apiaries.

Oberbergischer Kreis. On June 10, 2026, the outbreak of "American Foulbrood" was officially confirmed in a bee population in Hückeswagen. During subsequent environmental investigations, the veterinary office of the Oberbergischer Kreis identified two more outbreaks. As a result, the existing restricted area was expanded. It now also includes areas of Radevormwald and extends to the border of the Märkischer Kreis. Another general decree regarding the situation will come into effect shortly.

An interactive map of the restricted areas can be found here: www.obk.de/sperrbezirk1 

American Foulbrood is a bacterial infectious disease ("Paenibacillus larvae") that affects the brood of the affected bee colonies. The pathogen is transmitted in the form of infectious spores by foraging bees to the brood present in the hive. The brood mostly dies, causing the number of bees in the affected colony to decrease to the point where it no longer has the necessary strength to survive the winter. The bee colony ages and eventually dies. Mature bees do not fall ill from Foulbrood. To combat Foulbrood, affected colonies must be sanitized or, in the worst case, destroyed.

The bee disease is harmless to humans. Honey can still be consumed without any restrictions.

Bee keepers in the restricted area must now comply with various regulations:

• Every beekeeper keeping bees in the restricted area is required to immediately report the current population and exact locations to the veterinary office of the Oberbergischer Kreis.
• Movable bee colonies must not be removed from their location. Additionally, no bees may be introduced into the restricted area.
• Bee colonies, living or dead bees, combs, comb parts, comb debris, wax, honey, feed supplies, and used equipment must not be removed from the bee colonies.
• All bee colonies in the restricted area, as well as contact bee colonies, will be inspected promptly by the veterinary office.

If you have questions, please contact the veterinary office at the following phone number: 02261 88-3903

Note:
A registration form for beekeepers is available on the website of the Oberbergischer Kreis Service Portal - "Animal Husbandry Bees" – Animal Husbandry - Bees - Service Portal Oberbergischer Kreis