Somatic cells are white blood cells that fight infection and repair tissue damage. Somatic Cell Count is used as an indicator of milk quality and udder health and lower SCC levels garner premiums from processors.
Extension educator Amber Yutzy addresses concerns expressed by some producers about having SCC too low.
Source: Dairy Herd Management, January 16, 2023. Link.
The benefits of having a low SCC far outweigh the risks. The answer is not to increase your SCC but to maximize immunity and keep cows in the best environment possible.” – Amber Yutzy
INSIGHTS: Articles like this can help dairy personnel understand the factors influencing SCC and on-farm infection risks.