META-ANALYSIS ON THE EFFICACY OF DRY COW THERAPY INTERVENTIONS

摘要

The aim of this study was to perform two meta-analyses on dry period interventions. The first investigated the efficacy on prevention of new intra-mammary infections (MI), while the second meta-analysis quantified the efficacy of dry cow therapy (DCT)to cure existing IMI at dry off. Studies that had a treatment and control group were selected. Publication bias was assessed. Blanket DCT provided significant protection against quarter new IMI caused by Streptococcus spp., but not against new IMI caused by coliforms and Staphylococcus spp., after correcting for publication bias. Selective DCT protected quarters from new IMI, but depending on the selection unit for treatment. Teat sealant provided significant protection against quarter new IMI caused by Staphylococcus spp., but not against quarter new IMI caused by Streptococcus and coliform pathogens. Blanket DCT provided a higher cure rate from quarter IMI caused by Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. than untreated MI quarters.