The Overnighter is an overnight test which can be used to screen for Streptococcus spp and Staphylococcus aureus growing in mastitis milk.
Using new laboratory technology, we have developed an Overnight test which can be used to screen for key pathogens growing in mastitis milk. Small tubes are filled with selective culture medium (agar) which lets only particular species of bacteria grow. Fermentation from bacterial growth causes a colour change in the tubes, giving a very accurate and easy to read result.
The test will tell the difference between Streptococcus spp and Staphylococcus aureus, and can be used to
Establish whether infection is present in “doubtful” cases
Confirm a choice of treatment – am I using the right drug for the right duration?
Select treatment for high cell count cows
Analyse frozen milk samples
The colour change indicates the bacteria involved:
Red tube turns pineapple yellow indicates Staphylococcus aureus
Purple tube turns black or yellow indicates Streptococcus
Both tubes turning black indicates a contaminated sample
Other (unusual infections, such as E.coli) – no change
Varying tube models and indicator colours for other species and applications are under development.
