Isolation and identification of Staphylococcus aureus from bovine milk

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus is the most prevalent and economically significant pathogen causing intra mammary infections in dairy ruminants. The study was intended to isolate and identify Staphylococcus aureus from mammary quarter milk of cows and determine the potential risk factors associated with subclinical mastitis in Chittagong, Bangladesh. During 6 months duration of the study a total of 628 milk samples were collected from 102 dairy farms from different upazillas/ thanas in Chittagong district. The samples were collected under aseptic precautions. Data on probable risk factors was recorded by using questionnaire. California Mastitis test (CMT) was performed to detect subclinical mastitis (SCM) status and the positive samples were subjected to culture for isolation and identification of Staphylococcus aureus. Using bacteriological, biochemical based identification schemes, 13 SCM positive milk samples, from total 314 collected samples of 101 dairy farms, yielded Staphylococcus aureus. Udder hygiene, udder management and milking process showed statistically significant association with Staphylococcus aureus. In conclusion, it can be mentioned that, Staphylococcus aureus can significantly affect the bovine udder and can cause great economic loss. So, proper steps should be taken to control the occurrence.