Mastitis of sheep and goats.

This article presents an overview of the recent research into ovine and caprine mastitis. The common clinical presentations of mastitis in these species are reviewed, as are the important etiologic agents and their significance. The interpretation of somatic cell counts and surrogate tests, factors that affect somatic cell count levels, and association of somatic cell count levels with productivity are reviewed. Investigations into the treatment and prevention of mastitis and milking equipment function are discussed, and comments are made on the public health implications of extra label drug use and the consumption of unpasteurized milk.     

Mastitis associated with ovine progressive pneumonia virus infection in sheep

Eighteen ewes were experimentally infected with ovine progressive pneumonia virus and their mammary glands were examined for lesions and virus at 2.5 to 10 years postinoculation. Lesions were seen in 14 of 18 sheep; virus was isolated from 4 of 8 sheep. Lesion consisted of an interstitial accumulation of lymphocytes with periductal lymphoid nodules, and epithelial vacuolation and necrosis at the site of the lymphoid nodules.     

Mastitis control

Extract

Sir,—There are two unrelated measures in mastitis control which are worth mention.