First detection of genotype B of deformed wing virus (DWV) in mainland Portugal

The deformed wing virus (DWV)is widely distributed worldwide in Apis mellifera colonies. It is expected that the most virulent strain (DWV-B) will become more prevalent over time, yet there are still major gaps regarding its distribution. Here, we report for the first time the presence of DWV-B in Portugal (mainland) in honey and wild bees, as well as in Vespa velutina nigrithorax (collected in July–August, 2024). Furthermore, studies reporting DWV-B presence in European countries are reviewed to better understand its distribution at the European level.