Epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance, economic burden, and management approaches for staphylococcus aureus-associated bovine mastitis: a systematic review

Bovine mastitis, an inflammatory condition of the mammary gland, represents a formidable challenge to the global dairy industry, causing substantial economic losses and posing significant public health risks. Among the diverse causative agents, Staphylococcus aureus stands out as a prevalent and persistent pathogen, frequently associated with clinical and subclinical forms of the disease. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence regarding the prevalence of S. aureus in bovine mastitis, its antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns, the associated economic burden, and the multi-faceted control strategies employed across South Asia, specifically India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The review highlights the widespread occurrence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) S. aureus , including Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and the significant financial impact on dairy farmers, particularly smallholders. It underscores the complex interplay of biological factors, farm management practices, and regulatory environments contributing to the escalating AMR crisis. The analysis emphasizes the critical need for integrated diagnostic approaches, robust surveillance, and a comprehensive "One Health" strategy that prioritizes prevention, judicious antimicrobial use, and farmer education to safeguard animal health, ensure food safety, and mitigate the broader public health threat of AMR in the region.