New breakthrough bee vaccine technology could help combat colony declines

Beekeepers across the U.S. got a nasty surprise this year. Millions of pollinating bees were dead, with reports coming in across the country. Now, one company specializing in honeybee health says it might have a solution to the problem.

Georgia-based Dalan Animal Health says recent colony losses have created big challenges for keepers and farmers, which is why they have developed a vaccine. It exposes quee bees to inactive diseases, allowing them to give immunity to the rest of the hive. Developers have been testing the vaccine since 2022 in over 200 hives.

New numbers show commercial beekeepers lost around 62 percent of the nation’s pollinating supply over the winter. Keepers at Project APIS-M found several issues are causing the drop, including parasites and a lack of food. Honeybees help fertilize 75 percent of the world’s supplies.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Global trade teams and summit discussions highlight expanding opportunities for U.S. corn and ethanol exports as nations explore renewable fuel options and reduced-carbon energy pathways.
The Louisiana cotton crop is the smallest on record, but strong yields are a silver lining. LSU AgCenter’s Craig Gautreaux reports from northeast Louisiana.
Soybean farmer and Arkansas Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge highlights why the U.S. trade standoff with China is especially critical for Arkansas producers.
NEFB President Mark McHargue provides an update from the Husker State, where farmers are working hard to bring in one of the largest harvests in recent years.
Todd Miller, CEO of Head Honchos, shares about his business offering to ease agricultural labor shortages.