Abstract
A brief review is presented of the means of dissemination of Erwinia amylovora. The bacterium exists in the form of ooze, strands, epiphytic populations and endophytic populations. The status of endophytic bacteria in budwood and fruits is discussed. International dissemination of fire blight has taken place by wind, probably by birds, and by movement of budwood. It has been suggested that fruits may be involved, but there is international disagreement whether measures should be taken to protect against this pathway of dissemination.