Speciation and Quantification of Streptococcus-like Bacteria from Bulk Tank Milk, Bedding, and Teat Swabs Pre- and Post- Milking from Herds in Northern New York

Principal Investigator: Jessica Scillieri-Smith

Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences
Sponsor: Cornell Cooperative Extension-Jefferson Country
Grant Number: 2016-005C
Title: Speciation and Quantification of Streptococcus-like Bacteria from Bulk Tank Milk, Bedding, and Teat Swabs Pre- and Post- Milking from Herds in Northern New York
Project Amount: $35,341
Project Period: January 2016 to March 2017

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): 

Environmental organisms cause the majority of clinical mastitis in herds with low bulk milk somatic cell counts. Environmental Streptococci (non-agalactiae), can contribute significantly to clinical mastitis, although the organism responsible and prevalence can vary significantly between farms. Management of intramammary infections (IMI) caused by environmental organisms focuses on prevention by reducing the potential for bacteria to come in contact with the teat end and enter the teat canal. This can be minimized by improving cow hygiene through stall and bedding management and focusing on teat end cleanliness before milking. Streptococcus uberis has been identified on bovine teats, udder surface and other superficial locations and may act as a potential reservoir for new infections. Bedding and feces have also been shown to serve as an environmental reservoir for this organism. Research has shown an association between bacterial contamination of teat skin with Streptococcus species and Streptococcus uberis and the levels in bedding over time.