Despite considerable research on bovine mastitis the disease still remains an economically relevant problem to the dairy industry (Booth, J.M. 1995, Hillerton, J.E. 1996). Economic losses are estimated to be approximately $200 per cow per year in theUS and these losses are due to reduced production, increased replacement costs, discarded milk, drug costs, veterinary fees, and labor costs. Losses are incurred with both the subclinical and clinical manifestations of the disease. Additional costs thatare seldom mentioned are incurred by the processing industry in terms of reduced cheese yields, and products with reduced shelf life and consumer acceptance.
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