Scientists have developed a simple, user-friendly mastitis testing kit that allows dairy farmers to test their animals at home.
Mastitis is a leading cause of milk production losses. The Mapema Kit was developed by researchers at the Veterinary Science Research Institute (VSRI-KALRO).
Dr Moses Olum, deputy institute director at the Veterinary Science Research Institute in Muguga, said mastitis is a major concern for dairy farmers, especially for high-producing cows that are more susceptible.
He urged farmers to keep their animal sheds clean, especially with the anticipated rainy season, to reduce risks of the disease.
“Mastitis is every dairy farmer’s nightmare,” Olum said. “High producers are particularly vulnerable. In addition to regular monitoring, farmers can use the new, easy-touse testing kit developed by VSRI-Kalro to detect the condition.”
The Mapema Kit is designed to help farmers identify mastitis in their herds, even in cases of subclinical mastitis, which cannot be seen with the naked eye.
“Farmers only need to place a drop of milk on the kit. If the kit changes colour, it signals presence of mastitis. This type of mastitis is often subclinical, meaning it doesn’t show visible signs but still affects milk quality,” Olum said.
“Detecting subclinical mastitis early is crucial. It helps farmers take action before the condition worsens, ensuring animal welfare and safe milk production.”
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, mastitis is an inflammation of the udder often caused by bacterial infections that enter through the teat canal, leading to pain, swelling and reduced milk.
A study by the International Livestock Research Institute on the prevalence of mastitis in smallholder dairy farms in Kiambu said the condition leads to significant production losses and excessive antibiotic use.
Early detection and proper treatment are vital for cow recovery, improving health outcomes and reducing economic losses.
Senior research scientist at VSRI-Kalro Dr Peter Njuguna said mastitis is particularly prevalent during the rainy season, as wet, muddy and unclean cowsheds increase the risk of infection.
He said in severe cases, mastitis can reduce milk production by up to 80 per cent. “The mastitis kit is incredibly easy to use,” Njuguna said.
“Simply add a drop of milk to the kit, and if the colour turns blue, the cow has mastitis. It’s an invaluable tool for detecting subclinical mastitis before it causes significant damage.”
Currently being showcased at Kalro Open Week in Muguga, Kiambu county, the kit is part of a broader effort by Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research Organisation to provide farmers with innovative solutions to common agricultural challenges.
The vet also encouraged farmers to visit the open week
to learn more about the management of mastitis and other
diseases. “Farmers are welcome to bring their animals’
photos and seek advice from experts at the event,” he said.
