Mastitis: havoc for livestock farming

Mastitis is inflammation of the parenchyma of the mammary gland. It is a contagious disease and major cause of concern for farmers worldwide. Every year there is huge economic loss due to mastitis. Along with animals’ health it is also detrimental for health of the person who is consuming the milk from the infected animal as microorganisms present in milk can causes disease in human being also. The presence of clots, a significant leukocyte count, and discolorations are the three most significant abnormalities in the milk. In many clinical situations, there is mammary gland enlargement, heat, discomfort, and edema. The annual incidence of clinical mastitis in 100 cows at risk is between 10% and 12%. Intra-mammary infections affect 10%–25% of quarters and around 50% of cows. The etiology of mastitis determines the case-fatality rate. It can affect wide range of animals including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and dogs.