270. Lancefield group B streptococci (Str. agalactiae) on the hands of milkers and others

Abstract

Lancefield Group B streptococci have been recovered from the hands of milkers even in herds where infection was very light. Since these organisms had the biochemical reactions of Str. agalactiae, and since none were recovered from the hands of non-milkers, it is considered that they were identical with this organism and that the milkers' hands are a potential source of danger to cows. The methods of disinfection at present in use have been criticized and suggestions for improvements made.