The Rise of Mycoplasma bovis Dairy Insight

Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis) has been recognised for over 50 years as a pathogen in cattle. It is associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and joint ill in calves, and mastitis and arthritis in adult cattle. The costs to the UK dairy industry are unknown, however farms costs can be significant in the form of reduced growth rates, reduced milk production, cattle deaths and veterinary costs. Recently the disease has become more widely diagnosed.

According to data from the UK Veterinary Investigation Diagnosis Analysis, during the period between 2006 and 2017 there were 1102 diagnoses of M. bovis, of which 86.4% of which were associated with BRD. This insight publication explores the M. bovis bacteria, modes of transmission as well as treatment and prevention.

Issued August 2023

About Kingshay insight publications

Kingshay has been producing bi-monthly publications for dairy farmers since 1991. Publishing on issues critical to the success of a modern dairy farming business.

These briefings include dairy insight, business insight and research insight, they provide dairy farmers, large animal vets, farm consultants and other interested parties with the most vital and timely information in a concise two-page format. The information contained in our insight publications is written and updated by our experts to ensure accuracy and to save you time.

A selection of insight publications and Farming Notes are available to buy individually from our online shop. To gain access to all our publications become a Kingshay member.