Controlling highly prevalent Staphylococcus aureus mastitis from the dairy farm

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Science
• Dairy Production

Background:

• Persistent high somatic cell counts (SCC) in bulk milk indicated a significant subclinical mastitis issue.
• Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was identified as the causative agent in a substantial proportion of lactating cows and quarters.
• The dairy herd utilized a milking parlor system, a common environment for mastitis transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a control program for eradicating persistent Staphylococcus aureus mastitis in a commercial dairy herd.
• To monitor the program's efficacy over 3.5 years through infection rates, SCC, and milk composition analysis.

Main Methods:

• A multi-faceted control program was implemented, including improved cow handling and milking procedures.
• Key components included dry-cow therapy and the culling of infected animals.
• The program's success was assessed by tracking S. aureus infection rates, bulk milk SCC, and milk composition over time.

Main Results:

• Within 18 months, the S. aureus infection rate in quarter milk decreased dramatically.
• No S. aureus isolates were detected in the milk of the remaining cows post-intervention.
• Bulk milk SCC significantly dropped to a monthly mean below 20 x 10(4) cells/ml.

Conclusions:

• The implemented control program was highly effective in controlling and eradicating persistent S. aureus mastitis.
• Integrated management strategies, including hygiene, therapy, and culling, are crucial for managing mastitis in dairy herds.
• Successful mastitis control leads to improved milk quality, indicated by reduced SCC.