Rapid spread of OXA-244-producing Escherichia coli ST38 in Germany: insights from an integrated molecular surveillance approach; 2017 to January 2020

Annually, increasing numbers of OXA-244-producingEscherichia coli in 13 German federal states prompted us to initiate an outbreak investigation. Whole genome sequencing revealed that among 148 isolates analysed, most belonged to sequence type 38 with 62 isolates forming a genetically distinct cluster. Although no epidemiological link could be identified between cases, ongoing investigations suggest non-healthcare associated transmission. A screening-PCR was developed facilitating early detection of ST38 cluster isolates to identify the source and transmission route.

Source: Eurosurveillance - June 25, 2020 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Katrin Kremer, Rolf Kramer, Bernd Neumann, Sebastian Haller, Niels Pfennigwerth, Guido Werner, S ören Gatermann, Horst Schroten, Tim Eckmanns and Jörg B Hans Source Type: research