Related Experiment Videos
Streptococcus agalactiae mastitis: a review
1Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown.
Summary
Streptococcus agalactiae causes significant economic losses in dairy herds due to subclinical mastitis. Effective herd-level eradication is achievable through antibiotic therapy and improved hygiene practices.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Streptococcus agalactiae is a primary pathogen causing subclinical mastitis in dairy cattle, leading to substantial economic losses.
- Veterinarians require comprehensive information for herd-level control and eradication strategies against S. agalactiae mastitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing literature on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and control of Streptococcus agalactiae mastitis in dairy herds.
- To provide veterinarians with updated information on managing S. agalactiae infections at the herd level.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted on the Agricola database in 1993.
- Included articles focused on S. agalactiae epidemiology, identification techniques, milk quality impacts, and therapeutic/preventative measures.
Main Results:
- Despite antibiotic susceptibility, herd prevalence of S. agalactiae remains significant, ranging from 11% to 47% in available data.
- Infection leads to increased somatic cell and bacterial counts, reducing milk yield and quality.
- Traditional bulk tank milk cultures show low sensitivity; newer methods with selective media improve detection.
Conclusions:
- Individual cow therapy for S. agalactiae is highly effective.
- Herd eradication protocols, combined with diligent udder hygiene, are generally successful in eliminating the pathogen.