Using ELS’ culturing testing services, you can determine the type(s) of mastitis-causing bacteria infecting your herd, the source and how the infection is contaminating your herd. Additionally, learn what you can do to control the spread of bacteria. These numbers can help you, your veterinarian and field representative work together to improve herd health and mastitis-control measures on the farm.

Going beyond culturing: ELS offers DNA-based PCR testing

Frustrated by mastitis cultures showing no growth or contamination? Switching your mastitis protocols to a DNA-based method can help. ELS offers real-time Polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) mastitis detection to accurately determine which organism is causing your cases of mastitis using Pathoproof 16.

Some organisms like Staph aureus and Mycoplasma can only be detected by culturing if the organism is being actively shed. In addition, bacteria must be alive when samples arrive at ELS for testing. Pathoproof 16 is DNA-based, allowing it to detect organism at very low levels even if the bacteria have died. Pathoproof 16 can be used on milk samples from individual animals and/or bulk tanks, making it a perfect addition to your contagious mastitis prevention protocol.

Testing with ELS is:

  • Accurate: Pathoproof can detect the three major contagious mastitis agents (Mycoplasma bovis, Strep. Ag. and Staph. Aureus) and detect all other major species of Mycoplasma as well as accurately diagnose the 16 different mastitis causing bacteria.
  • Affordable: Samples from individual animals can be pooled to save money.

Resources

Find out more about PCR testing and the types of bacteria it tests for.

Find out what the different types of bacteria mean to you and your herd by Interpreting Bulk Tank Results

ELS offers a monthly bulk tank monitoring program.

Contact ELS at 1-877-357-5227 or support@elslab.com for more information.