Screening of subclinical mastitis using commercially available WEIZUR test in buffaloes

Abstract

Subclinical mastitis is a major challenge for milk producing countries like India. A number of infectious agents have been identified but the most common ones are Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus uberis, Escherichia coli and Mycoplasma species. The infectious nature of mastitis causing agents needs quick and early screening of milk samples. California mastitis test (CMT) is an indirect, on- farm test which is continuously being used by many dairy farms. Subclinical cases of mastitis are hard to detect due to lack of clear-cut systemic sign in udder. The only noticeable sign is fall in milk production. Milk samples from 44 lactating buffaloes were collected and subjected to commercially available WEIZUR test for screening. Results revealed that 83 (69.16%) quarter samples were negative for CMT and 37 (30.83%) quarter samples were positive for CMT. Among the positive quarter milk samples, the highest incidence was recorded in CMT score (++) as 22 (47.82%) and the lowest in CMT score (+++) as 09 (19.56%).