The Other Gram-Negative Bacteria in Mastitis Klebsiella, Serratia, and More

A number of emerging pathogens appear to increase in importance for bovine mastitis. Klebsiella spp are considered opportunistic pathogens for humans and animals. Klebsiella spp have also been reported as an increasingly important cause of clinical mastitis in the United States and other countries. Clinical mastitis due to Klebsiella infection results in high milk loss and high mortality of the affected cows. Prevention of infections through reduction of exposure has been the cornerstone of Klebsiella mastitis control on dairy farms. However, contagious behavior of Klebsiella spp intramammary infections may occur. Similarly, there has been an increase in other persistent gram-negative infections.