Rubbing alcohol / hand sanitizer

[briswi]

Do you think rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer is good to use between checking hives to make sure you're not spreading something like nosema or AHB?

[buzzbee]

Both of those diseases are spread by spores. Extreme heat is what is need to kill that.  I would be more likely to throw the hive tool in the smoker and crank it up if your worried. If you stay in your own apiary with your tools and equipment you likely won't have to worry unless you see an out break of either.

[sc-bee]

And what about your hive tool ..... just curious ;)

[sc-bee]

Sorry Ken I did not read your whole post... as you hit the hive tool. If you have problems in a particular hive or yard take precautions yes. And don't allow any other beekeeper to work your hives with their equipment including gloves if applicable as I am sure you would not theirs.

[briswi]

Great!  Thank you for the quick responses.

[danno]

Although rubbing alcohol doesn't work for AFB is is a really good hand cleaner for sticky propolis

[buzzbee]

Although rubbing alcohol doesn't work for AFB is is a really good hand cleaner for sticky propolis

True :)

[Michael Bush]

You just need to torch your hands in between hives... ;)  JUST KIDDING! It's not like one spore is going to spread the disease, it takes a lot more than that to get it established (either AFB or EFB).

[D Coates]

Although rubbing alcohol doesn't work for AFB is is a really good hand cleaner for sticky propolis

I carry little individual wrapped pads that folks normally buy for using hypodermic needles.  I use them on occasion before I get into my truck to avoid getting propolis on my steering wheel, shifter, seat belt and cell phone.  It saves time in the long run if my hands are particularly sticky.