Healthy cows, profitable farms, high-quality milk
In modern dairy farming, a farm's success depends on its cows' health. Healthy cows produce more milk of better quality and cost less. They feel better and pose no risk of infection to humans.
Mastitis - common, often invisible, always expensive
Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland, affecting dairy cows worldwide. It contributes to high direct and indirect economic losses, since 30% of all dairy cows suffer at least one episode of mastitis annually.
Whilst the antibiotic treatment of infected cows contributes to the direct costs, the indirect costs are more consequential. After an infection, the total losses in milk range often between 110 and 552kg in an entire lactation period, as contaminated milk needs to be discarded and the culling risk of the affected cow is substantially increased.
Furthermore, milk production is affected on a long-term period since original milk yield is often not regained during the entire lactation period.
But dairies, public health and not least the animals themselves are also affected. The impact of mastitis:
Farmer
- Reduced cow milk yield (acutely and permanently)
- Ban for milk from sick or drug-excreting animals
- Penalties for non-compliance with milk quotas
- Costs for vets and medication
- Due to zoonotic threats the milk cannot be sold, leading to economic loss. Further, the market price on a cow is lower and further costs for treatment if mastitis occurred.
Dairy
- Longer rennet coagulation time
- Lower cheese yield
- Reduced hygienic quality of the milk
Public
- Mastitis milk might be harmful for human consumption if unpasteurized due to pathogen transmission, therefore health concern.
- Furthermore, extensive use of antibiotics and the persistence of biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance led to increasing cases of ineffective antibiotic therapy.
Cow
- Pain
- Premature slaughter
How does mastitis develop?
Mastitis occurs mostly due to bacterial pathogens entering the udder and is treated with antibiotic ointments that are locally applied in the teat channel or parenteral antibiotics. However, not all clinical mastitis require antibiotic treatment.
Economics, public health concerns and animal welfare imply that a rapid, early and correct pathogen identification is crucial for the effective treatment of clinical mastitis in dairy cows.
the fastest and most accurate mastitis diagnostics
emma provides answers to these questions:
- Which mastitis pathogens are present?
- Which pathogens can be ruled out?
And in addition, with HygieneGuard ATP, the emma platform is even more effective:
the question “Where are the weak points in barn hygiene?” can be easily addressed, with the 10- second hygiene test.
emmaverse: emma platform in combination with HygieneGuard ATP and Microbiology Lab from ender – more than the sum of its parts
The emmaverse consists of three perfectly harmonised components that provide you with a comprehensive overview of milk quality and hygiene. The components can be used as a system or individually.
emmaverse services and products
emma platform
A rapid test that checks the microbiological quality of the milk in minutes and detects common mastitis pathogens. This means you can often rule out mastitis or use antibiotics in a targeted manner.
Microbiology Lab
If necessary, enhances the results of emma and offers comprehensive microbiological analyses. This gives you even more precise information about the bacteria in the milk and allows you to determine the definitive treatment plan.
HygieneGuard ATP
Checks the cleanliness of the barn and the milking process. With this guard, you can identify weak points in hygiene and eliminate sources of contamination.
We strengthen sustainable agriculture
You improve the health of your herd, the milk quality and the profitability of your farm.
You receive reliable diagnostic data in the shortest possible time and, if necessary, use antibiotics in a targeted manner. You discuss hygiene measures in the barn with the farmer based on facts.
You receive milk of consistent, high quality in the agreed quantity. Your production can be planned and delivers top-quality products.
We all benefit from emma’s contribution to less antibiotic resistance.
emmaverse strengthens your role as a vet and the farmers' trust in you
Join the many farmers and vets who already rely on ender
Ensure the health of your cows and the success of your business with the best diagnostic solution on the market.
We would be happy to demonstrate the emmaverse in your practice.
Collect ~0.5 ml milk sample
Homogenize at 4350xg for 40 seconds.
Add 10 µl sample to PCR tubes.
Run PCR and analyze results.
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Rapid diagnostics and targeted therapy = fewer antibiotics
Join Us at Space in France
Explore emma, our award-winning PCR technology for rapid clinical mastitis diagnostics.
emma at NMC 2024
National Mastitis Council (NMC) 2024 in Gent, Belgium. This event offers veterinarians and industry professionals the chance to explore the emma 90-minute PCR clinical mastitis test—a tool designed for rapid, evidence-based mastitis treatment, significantly reducing antibiotic use.
“Emma's rapid PCR technology has been a game-changer for us. Being able to diagnose clinical mastitis with precision in just 90 minutes allows us to make evidence-based decisions that are both effective and economically beneficial. ”
Green Pastures Farm
Dr. Sarah Thompson
Documents
Download our white paper to discover how emma qPCR revolutionizes clinical mastitis detection
Explore the innovative emma qPCR system for rapid and precise pathogen identification in veterinary practices.
Some of our amazing clients
FAQ
What is emma PCR?
The emma PCR (ender molecular multiplex approach) is an innovative diagnostic test designed to rapidly identify and differentiate mastitis pathogens in dairy cows using PCR technology. It is developed by ender diagnostics in Switzerland and can be used directly in veterinary practices.
How does emma PCR work?
emma PCR uses real-time PCR technology to detect specific mastitis pathogens within 90 minutes. The process involves sample preparation, PCR amplification, and automated analysis, all conducted in a veterinary practice setting.
What pathogens can emma PCR detect?
emma PCR is capable of detecting a wide range of pathogens, including:
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Contagious Panel:
- Staphylococcus spp.
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Streptococcus spp.
- Streptococcus uberis
- Streptococcus agalactiae
- Mycoplasma spp.
- E. coli
- Internal controls
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Environmental Panel:
- Staphylococcus spp.
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Streptococcus spp.
- Streptococcus uberis
- Enterococcus spp.
- Klebsiella spp.
- E. coli
- Internal controls
What are the main benefits of using emma PCR?
- Rapid Results: Provides results in just 90 minutes.
- Accurate Diagnostics: Enables evidence-based treatment decisions.
- Reduced Antibiotic Use: Helps reduce unnecessary antibiotic use by up to 40%.
- Economic Advantage: Generates additional revenue for veterinary practices by allowing direct billing for tests.
- User-Friendly: Requires minimal training and no specialized laboratory skills.
How does emma PCR improve treatment outcomes for clinical mastitis?
By providing rapid and precise pathogen identification, emma PCR allows veterinarians to make informed treatment decisions, selecting appropriate antibiotics or opting out of antibiotic use when unnecessary. This targeted approach improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.
How is the emma PCR test conducted?
The test involves the following steps:
- Sample Collection: Collect a milk sample from the cow.
- Sample Preparation: Use the provided lysis tube and homogenize the sample.
- PCR Amplification: Run the PCR process with the selected panel (contagious or environmental).
- Automated Analysis: Results are automatically analyzed and reported through a web-based system.
Does emma PCR require any special training?
emma PCR is designed to be user-friendly and can be easily learned with minimal training. Ender diagnostics provides comprehensive training to ensure veterinarians and staff can efficiently conduct the test.
How does emma PCR compare to traditional microbiology tests?
Speed: emma PCR provides results in 90 minutes, whereas traditional microbiology can take up to 72 hours.
Pathogen Detection: emma PCR detects a broader range of pathogens, including Mycoplasma spp., which are often missed by traditional methods.
No Culture Required: emma PCR does not require pathogen culture, reducing safety risks and time delays.
Can emma PCR detect antibiotic resistance?
No, emma PCR does not detect antibiotic resistance or resistance genes. It focuses on rapid pathogen identification to facilitate evidence-based treatment. For resistance monitoring, regular microbiological testing is recommended.
How does emma PCR benefit veterinary practices financially?
By conducting tests in-house, veterinary practices can generate additional revenue through direct billing. The rapid turnaround time also enhances service quality and client satisfaction.
Is emma PCR cost-effective compared to other diagnostic methods?
Yes, emma PCR is cost-effective due to its rapid results, reduced antibiotic usage, and ability to keep testing revenue within the practice. It offers a competitive advantage over slower, traditional testing methods.
What support does ender diagnostics provide for emma PCR users?
Ender diagnostics offers comprehensive training and support, including installation guidance, user training, and technical assistance to ensure seamless integration into veterinary practices.
Can emma PCR be used in any veterinary practice?
Yes, emma PCR is designed for use in various veterinary settings, from large animal practices to smaller clinics, without requiring specialized laboratory infrastructure.
How much hands-on time is required for testing?
The emma qPCR system requires approximately 15 minutes of hands-on time for preparation. The rest of the analysis is automated, with pathogen identification being completed within 55 minutes through a web-based evaluation.
How can I learn more about emma PCR or request a demonstration?
For more information, demonstrations, or to request training, please contact ender diagnostics at:
Or simply set a meeting with us: