30 October, 2024, Bikaner
The ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel, Bikaner has developed a diagnostic test called “KaMastiTest” for early detection of sub-clinical and clinical mastitis in camels. Like other dairy animals, mastitis in female camels also causes huge economic losses due to reduced milk quality and production.
Dr. R.K. Sawal, Director, NRCC informed that currently no specific test is available for early diagnosis of mastitis in camels. As a result, camel farmers and veterinarians depend on tests that have been specifically developed for cows and buffaloes. These tests often do not show adequate sensitivity and specificity for camels, making it difficult to detect early stages of sub-clinical and clinical mastitis. The “Ka-Masti-Test” has made it easier to address this problem and enable farmers to detect sub-clinical and clinical mastitis early. The Director said that regular testing of milch camels will promote clean milk production, enhance its storage capacity and public acceptance. This proactive approach will also contribute to the protection of public health by reducing the incidence of food-borne diseases.
Dr. Rakesh Ranjan, Principal Scientist, NRCC informed that the “Ka-Masti-Test” has been designed to be easy to use and cost-effective so that it can be administered by trained camel keepers, veterinarians, or livestock assistants in their fields or homes without the need for any advanced equipment or expensive chemicals.
The test has been under laboratory testing for the last two years and has been successfully demonstrated among farmers for field-level validation. The test kits are being distributed to farmers to promote clean milk production and reduce losses due to mastitis.
(Source: ICAR-National Camel Research Centre, Bikaner)
