Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Epidemiology of environmental coliform mastitis vs contagious mastitis: standard 5-point mastitis control plans target contagious parlor spread but fail against environmental pathogens.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Statement I: The classic NIRD 5-Point Mastitis Control Plan (post-milking teat dipping, universal dry cow therapy, milking machine maintenance, prompt treatment of clinical cases, culling chronic cows) was specifically designed for contagious pathogens (S. agalactiae, S. aureus) and is largely ineffective against coliform mastitis (E. coli, Klebsiella). Hence, Statement I is true.
2. Statement II: Environmental coliforms are ubiquitous in feces, mud, and organic bedding. Teat canal entry occurs through direct environmental exposure between milkings (when teats relax after milking) rather than parlor transmission. Hence, Statement II is true and correctly explains Statement I.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, Both Statement I and Statement II are true, matching option (A).