An analysis of somatic cell counts between 2005 and 2010 and the contribution of chronic high cell count cows

An analysis of somatic cell counts in over 41 million milk samples collected by NMR between 2005 and 2010 showed that the percentage of low cell count milk samples (below 200,000 cells/ml milk) has been increasing since 2007, passing 75% of samples collected in 2010. Of all high cell count samples, 57% originate from chronic, persistent high cell count cows. A strong correlation exists between herd cell count and the level of chronic cows in the herd. The need is discussed for greater monitoring of chronic cow numbers and more emphasis on preventing cows reaching chronic status.