Influence of horn flies (Haematobia irritans) on teat skin condition, intramammary infection, and serum anti-S. aureus antibody titres in holstein heifers

Staphylococcus aureus remains a major mastitis-causing pathogen in growing dairy heifers, resulting in damage to developing milk secretory tissue. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of horn flies as vectors in the spread of S. aureus among dairy heifers immunized with a S. aureus bacterin. We analyzed the prevalence of mastitis among quarters, evaluated teat skin condition (as a result of biting flies) prior to and after insecticide administration, and measured serum anti-S. aureus antibody titres monthly after vaccination. Response to S. aureus immunization was poor; however, titres increased 2- to 3-fold during the period when fly populations increased drastically and teat skin condition worsened, especially front quarter teat condition. Presence of flies and the resulting teat lesions were associated with a high level of S. aureus mastitis. Use of an insecticidal pour-on reduced fly populations and healed teat lesions, but existing cases of mastitis required antibiotic therapy.