Recognition of these times can lead to the development of proactive strategies to moderate this effect. Examination of areas on the farm associated with an increased rate of new ES IMI will identify internal farm climates that lead to problems. Uneven calving rates, the birth of a high proportion of heifers, or low production are examples of changes that can temporarily increase the animal density within certain environments. Producers often fail to recognize the potential impact of these changes on environmental bacterial numbers and exposure of the herd to an increased risk of ES mastitis. Proper housing management should reduce the concentration and multiplication of ES in the environment.
Improved ventilation can reduce temperature and humidity.
Differences in mastitis rates between milking groups, certain housing areas, stalls of differing dimensions or associated with different milking personnel may be found. Closer examination of factors associated with the problem location is warranted. Sometimes the final cause of mastitis is not found but a solution to the problem becomes obvious. ES in the cow's environment is a necessary cause of ES mastitis but the presence of the bacteria does not always cause mastitis. A variety of other factors which affect bacterial numbers in the environment, exposure of the teat end and the resistance of the cow are also important.