Second restricted zone due to American foulbrood

Further outbreak of bee disease in Hof.

Another outbreak of American foulbrood in bees has been detected in another area of the Hofer city area. This time, the area around plot number 538 in Unterkotzau is affected. In order to prevent the further spread of this notifiable animal disease, the city of Hof has set up a second restricted area with a radius of at least one kilometer around the affected location.

The city of Hof issues a second general decree.

The following regulations will apply within this restricted area from June 5, 2025:

Bees, bee colonies, honeycombs, wax, honey for feeding, food supplies, bee dwellings and used beekeeping equipment may not be moved out of or into the restricted area.
Moving bee colonies within the restricted zone is also prohibited.
The introduction of new bees or bee colonies into the restricted zone is not permitted.

These measures serve to protect the bee population and contain the disease. The city of Hof asks all beekeepers and the affected population for their understanding and consistent compliance with the applicable regulations. The general decree of May 27, 2025 for the first restricted area remains in full force.

Background American foulbrood is a notifiable disease of honey bees. It poses no danger to humans, but can severely damage bee colonies and lead to their death.