Deformed wing virus is a recent global epidemic in honeybees driven by <i>Varroa</i> mites

TLDR

Varroa‑vectored virus pandemics threaten bee populations, but direct transmission between bees is inefficient, as noted by Wilfert et al. European honey bees are the main source of DWV, and Varroa mites facilitate its spread; the mites were introduced from Asian bees through queen trade, causing efficient inoculation and direct damage to bees. Science, this issue p.

Abstract

Varroa -vectored virus pandemic Bees are facing several threats that are causing population collapses. Wilfert et al. found that European honey bees are the primary source of deformed wing virus (DWV) (see the Perspective by Villalobos). However, paradoxically, transmission between bees is inefficient. It seems that parasitic mites can facilitate virus transmission. European honeybees acquired the rapidly spreading Varroa mite from Asian honey bees, possibly via the commercial exchange of queens. Not only do bees suffer direct damage from the mites, but the bees are also efficiently inoculated with DWV. Science , this issue p. 594 ; see also p. 554