Cutting mastitis cases can pay dividends
At any time, it is estimated that one cow in four is affected by sub-clinical mastitis (high SCC), and the cost of high-SCC/mastitis in Ireland is estimated to be about €30m per annum.
On average, there are about 40 mastitis cases per 100 cows in Irish dairy herds. Proper use of a good, licensed teat dip/spray, and good hygiene, are priorities, while ensuring the milking machine is in perfect working order. All the rules and practices of good mastitis control should be carefully followed throughout the year. Animal Health Ireland (AHI), Teagasc and co-ops are doing a lot of mastitis control work.
