Low Risk of Deformed Wing Virus in Imported Honey to Australian Bees

AgriFutures Australia research found a low but possible risk of deformed wing virus (DWV) entering Australian bee colonies through imported honey. DWV was detected in 9 of 15 raw or minimally processed imported honey samples, but virus levels were near or below those needed for consistent transmission to honey bees. No DWV was found in processed honeys, supporting heat treatment and filtration as effective biosecurity measures. Researchers recommend focusing biosecurity on raw or minimally processed honey and continuing surveillance and testing of imports.