PCR detection of Kashmir bee virus in honey bee excreta

Using direct RT-PCR, Kashmir bee virus (KBV) was detected in the faecal material of worker and queen honey bees (Apis mellifera). This occurrence implies that KBV could be transmitted horizontally in bee colonies without involving the suspected mite vector, Varroa jacobsoni. The molecular techniques described in this study can be used to certify KBV-free queens sold to beekeepers.