Prototheca sp.
Prototheca is not a bacterium, but a colorless, unicellular alga that commonly occurs in environments - soil, water, manure, sewer. Infections in animals do not occur i ten often, but they are widespread globally, and can also be found in The Czech Republic, and their abundance is slowly growing. Very rarely, infections may occur in humans (infections in individuals with compromised immune function - extremely liable to severe invasive infections, and occasionally.
Mastitis in dairy cows is most commonly caused by Prototheca zopfii (the genus Prototheca includes 6 other species).
Prototheca causes both clinical and subclinical mastitis, which progresses to chronic forms. The alga does not respond to antibiotic treatment, and may be transmitted to humans through the consumption of infected milk and products derived from it, as standard pasteurization does not kill it. In affected cows, spontaneous recovery does not occur, so early diagnosis and prevention are crucial.
The main consequence of infection is a gradual significant decrease in milk production in the affected quarter, as the alga damages and irreversibly destroys the tissue of the mammary gland, leading to a progressive drop in milk yield. The secretion may be watery with white flecks, and can often be cloudy, but the infection can be present even without visible symptoms. It is significant that the number of somatic cells increases in the milk.
Occasionally, the alga can penetrate further into the body, attack lymph nodes, and some animals may experience swelling and tenderness in the udder.
Prototheca is transmitted by contact of an open or damaged teat canal with contaminated environments, occurring during milking and handling techniques. It thrives in high temperatures and humid environments where it rapidly multiplies. It has even been found in the feces of rodents caught in milk-producing farms. Studies have proven that the occurrence of protothecal infections in dairy cattle directly correlates with hygiene standards of milking and housing, as well as quality of feed and drinking water. The alga thrives and proliferates in moist conditions on a variety of smooth surfaces - rubber, polypropylene, and even glass and stainless steel.
Therefore, to prevent infections of the alga, high levels of animal hygiene, correct milking technique, and above all, proper care of the teat canals, which must always be dry and clean, even during daily routines, are essential.
Considering the absence of specific treatment, it is recommended to cull infected cows Using prototheca.
