Every farm should have a mastitis strategy to suit its individual mastitis control goals. Progress toward these goals can be achieved by setting targets.

Farmers must develop their own strategies and annual reviews, but advisors can help to facilitate this process. There are many mastitis monitoring services offered by advisors. These can be through herd health services, in conjunction with milk recording services, or as on-going monitoring services in herds after major mastitis issues have been resolved.

Guideline 22 provides practical information on:

• Reviewing mastitis performance and setting new targets
• Importance of involving all members of staff and family working on the farm
• Arranging for your milking machine to be tested, serviced, and if necessary, upgraded
• Seeking advice if farm indicators are above the warning levels

Technote 22 provides technical information for farmers and advisers on:

• What to consider when developing a mastitis strategy for a farm