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The importance of mastitis management practices in maintaining milk quality in the United States
Dairy producers strive to achieve optimal milk quality in an effort to provide the highest quality product possible to consumers. Milk quality is highly influenced by management practices used on farms. Poor milk quality may lead to decreased cheese yield and reduced shelf life for all dairy products. Measurements of milk quality include somatic cell count (SCC), bulk tank bacterial counts, antibiotic residues, and nutrient values. Lowered milk quality in certain regions of the US within the past few years has caused some concerns within the industry, leading to renewed efforts toward improving milk quality. Such changes are centered on key management practices, including mastitis treatment and prevention. Mastitis is one of the most prevalent and costly diseases within the dairy industry, impacting both cows’ health and milk quality. Awareness of the disease and its economic impact can increase motivations for change. Prevention of mastitis is key to management of the disease. Management of the environment (including housing and routine procedures) and cleanliness of the parlor can reduce the spread of mastitis-causing pathogens and decrease the risk of contamination. Housing and bedding should be kept clean and dry. In-parlor milking procedures, which include pre- and post- teat dip with proper germicides, can help remove existing bacteria from the udder and lower the risk of mastitis. Heifers are also at risk for mastitis and infection can lead to reduced milk yield during lactation. Prevention strategies include proper management and nutrition and attention to prepartum udder health. Dry cows have a higher risk of mastitis infections than lactating cows. Prevention of mastitis for dry cows at drying off includes treating all quarters with antibiotic products designed specifically for dry cow therapy. Vaccinations are also available to prevent against certain strains of mastitis-causing bacteria. Detection and awareness of mastitis is important for proper, timely treatment. Treatment methods can vary based on the severity of the case and can influence milk yield, quality, and overall cow health and performance. Dairy Herd Information Association (DHIA) records can help with somatic cell count management. Culturing of milk to determine bacteriological causes of mastitis can be useful for designing pathogen-specific prevention and treatment strategies.
Keywords: mastitis management, milk quality, United States