2.8 Varroosis

Varroa mites are the main parasitic disease affecting honey bees and, without rigorous control measures, pose a major threat to the survival of colonies. They are caused by the Varroa mite and weaken both the brood and adult bees. The following information is based on the official checklist 2.8 of the Swiss Bee Health Service.

Official Practical Guide – Summary

Practical Guide: 2.8 Varroosis

• Description: Varroosis is a parasitic disease caused by the Varroa mite, which reproduces in the brood and attaches to adult bees.
• Consequences for the colony:
  • Weakening of brood and bees.
  • Transmission of viruses.
  • Risk of colony collapse.
• Control principle:
  • Regular monitoring of infestation levels.
  • Combination of different control methods.
  • Integration into a comprehensive strategy.
• Importance:
  • Without appropriate measures, colony survival cannot be assured.
• Important note:
  • Isolated interventions without a comprehensive approach are insufficient in the long term.

► Open the official practical guide PDF (FR)

► To the official practical guides page (abeilles.ch)
Note: Chapter 2.8 "Varroosis".

Summary compiled on the basis of Practical Guide 2.8. Last verified: 01/2026.

See also:

• Practical Guide 1.1: Varroa concept
• Varroa destructor
• Practical Guide: 1.5.1 Measuring natural Varroa mite drop
• Practical Guide: 1.2 Overview of summer treatment methods