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Updated: Feb 11, 2026
14:07
Genome-wide Gene Deletions in Streptococcus sanguinis by High Throughput PCR
Published on: November 23, 2012
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Genomic sequence investigation Streptococcus pyogenes clusters in England (2010-2015)
J M Coelho1, G Kapatai1, A Jironkin2
1Bacterial Reference Department, Public Health England, London, UK.
Summary
Genomic sequencing accurately distinguished Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) outbreaks in healthcare settings. This analysis confirmed or excluded cases and identified staff colonization and environmental contamination with outbreak strains.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) outbreaks pose significant risks in healthcare settings, particularly in elderly care and maternity wards.
- Effective outbreak investigation relies on accurate methods to link cases and identify transmission routes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze genomic differences between epidemiologically related and unrelated Streptococcus pyogenes isolates from healthcare outbreaks.
- To assess the utility of genomic sequencing in distinguishing outbreak strains from sporadic infections.
Main Methods:
- Genomic sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of 134 S. pyogenes isolates from 21 outbreaks (2010-2015).
- Phylogenetic analysis, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) comparison, and statistical outlier detection.
- Comparison of isolates from patients, healthcare workers, and environmental samples within and between outbreaks.
Main Results:
- Genomic sequences of epidemiologically linked isolates were highly conserved (0-1 SNP difference).
- Healthcare worker colonization and environmental contamination with outbreak strains were identified in several instances.
- Genomic SNP analysis successfully excluded ten isolates from defined epidemiological outbreaks.
Conclusions:
- Genomic discrimination is a valuable tool for assisting in Streptococcus pyogenes outbreak investigations.
- Genomic data can confirm or exclude cases from epidemiologically defined outbreaks.
- The study demonstrated healthcare worker colonization and environmental contamination as potential transmission sources.
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