Identification of Coagulase Gene in Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Recovered from Subclinical Mastitis in Camels

The current study was conducted to estimate coagulase positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) being a nuisance pathogen among mastitis etiology from subclinical cases of camel mastitis and to investigate the association of assumed risk factors. A total of 235 subclinical positive milk samples were collected from camels kept at different localities of Cholistan desert, Punjab Pakistan by using Surf Field Mastitis Test (SFMT). Data regarding some possible risk factors associated with subclinical mastitis were also collected and analysed by chi-square techniques at 95% confidence interval. The study revealed 50.54% (235/465) prevalence of subclinical mastitis in camels. Staphylococci were cultured in 74.04% (174/235) of milk samples from subclinical camel mastitis. Results showed 88.5% (154/174) prevalence of coagulase positive S. aureus using slide and tube agglutination techniques, while 54.02% (94/174) prevalence of coagulase positive S. aureus was confirmed by PCR technique. The quarter based prevalence of subclinical mastitis was examined in 30.93% (520/1681) quarters, whereas 9.6% (179/1860) quarters were blocked in camels. Chi-square and Odd's ratio analysis showed significant (P<0.05) association of mastitis with age, parity and udder pathology while non significant association with unhygienic condition of udder, lack of teat dipping practice, lactation status and feeding management. It was concluded that coagulase positive S. aureus was the major cause of mastitis in camel and there was positive association of some risk factors with occurring of mastitis. (C) 2017 PVJ. All rights reserved