Authors : Vo Lam, Karin Ostensson, Kerstin Svennersten-Sjaunja, Lennart Norell and Ewa Wredle
Abstract: The present study was conducted to investigate management factors influencing milk Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and udder infection rate in lactating cows housed at smallholder farms in Southern Vietnam. In total 115 lactating cows at 20 farms were included in the study. Management and milking routines were registered and quarter milk samples were taken for analysis of SCC and bacterial species. Watering routine was found to significantly influence herd milk SCC (p = 0.008) and the method of teat cup cleaning showed a tendency to influence herd milk SCC (p = 0.078). Streptococcus agalactiae was the most common bacteria species in all management groups. Cleaning teat cups with detergent at every milking was a routine observed to be associated with lower infection rate of Streptococcus agalactiae. The results of this study show the presence of several in-adequate management and hygienic practices associated with high SCC which if improved could lead to improved udder health and subsequently higher milk yield.
Vo Lam, Karin Ostensson, Kerstin Svennersten-Sjaunja, Lennart Norell and Ewa Wredle, 2011. Management Factors Influencing Milk Somatic Cell Count and Udder Infection Rate in Smallholder Dairy Cow Herds in Southern Vietnam. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 10: 847-852.