Bovine mastitis

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common environmental pathogen causing mastitis in dairy cows. E. coli is found in organic matter such as bedding and manure, which are risk factors for mastitis infection. Following infection, E. coli rapidly multiplies in the mammary glands causing an influx of inflammatory cells, leading to severe local inflammation.

It’s highly prevalent in the UK with approximately 30 cases per 100 cows every year.