Antibiotic treatment (Terramycin)

Terramycin (oxytetracycline) is an antibiotic that can be used to suppress the vegetative stage of American Foulbrood (AFB) bacteria. However, it does not eliminate AFB spores, and therefore, is not a cure. Terramycin treatment can mask AFB symptoms and allow infected colonies to appear healthy, but the spores remain, and the disease can recur if treatment is discontinued. Antibiotic use in AFB management is controversial due to concerns about masking disease, promoting antibiotic resistance in bacteria, and contaminating honey. Terramycin should only be used under strict conditions, typically under the guidance of agricultural authorities or bee inspectors, and with caution. It is not a recommended long-term solution for AFB. A syringe or measuring device is used to administer Terramycin in powdered form, often mixed with powdered sugar and dusted into the hive.