ECONOMIC LOSSES DUE TO MASTITIS IN DAIRY FARMS OF HYDERABAD, TELANGANA, INDIA: ESTIMATION AND IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Mastitis is a prevalent and costly disease affecting dairy farms worldwide, including those in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. This study aimed to estimate the economic losses incurred due to mastitis in dairy farms in Hyderabad and explore the implications for the dairy industry. Data on mastitis prevalence, milk yield reduction, treatment costs, discarded milk, and reduced milk quality were collected from a sample of dairy farms. Economic losses were calculated based on these factors using established methods. The results revealed significant financial losses associated with mastitis, including reduced milk production, increased treatment expenses, milk discard, and decreased milk quality. The estimated economic losses highlight the substantial impact of mastitis on dairy farm profitability and emphasize the need for effective preventive and control measures. The implications of these findings for dairy farm management, animal health practices, and policy interventions are discussed.

Keywords

Mastitis, economic losses, dairy farms