An outbreak of Streptococcus canis mastitis in a dairy herd in Israel

Authors: Saran A, Chaffer M, Friedman S, Younis A
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 53, Issue 4, pp 261-264, Aug 2005
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Animal remedies/veterinary medicines, Antibiotics, Treatment/therapy, Bacterial, Diagnostic procedures, Farm/farm management, International, Mammary gland/udder, Mastitis, Infectious disease, Milk, Contamination/hygiene, Quality/assurance, Disease/defect
Article class: Clinical Communication

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Abstract: CASE HISTORY: An increase in the bulk somatic cell count (BSCC) of up to 1,000 x 103 cells/ml occurred in a dairy herd in Israel at the end of 2001 and beginning of 2002.
CLINICAL FINDINGS: Bacteriological examination of milk from 69 cows revealed a high prevalence of Streptococcus group G bacteria, identified as S. canis, affecting 38% of cows and 20% of all quarters. Isolates were sensitive to cephalothin and moderately sensitive to penicillin G. Infected cows were separated from the herd, treated with intramammary antibiotics, milked last, and strict hygiene practices were introduced to the milking routine. The pathogen was cleared from the herd and BSCC decreased to 250–350 x 103 cells/ml after 6 months.
DIAGNOSIS: Streptococcus canis mastitis.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Streptococcus canis infection may cause subclinical mastitis and high bulk SCC in dairy herds and be resolved by treatment with intramammary antibiotics and the introduction of strict hygiene practices.
KEY WORDS: Streptococcus canis, subclinical mastitis, intramammary antibiotics, antibiotic sensitivity test

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