Molecular epidemiology of panton valentine leukocidin-producing Staphylococcus aureus infections, Djibouti, 2018–2023

Abstract

Between 2018 and 2023, a genomic study was conducted in a military camp in Djibouti to investigate the molecular epidemiology of Panton-Valentine Leukocidin-producing Staphylococcus aureus. Among 43 isolates, Sequence Type 152 was predominant (72%), mainly associated with spa types t355 and t4235. Core-genome Multi-Locus Sequence Typing revealed two concurrent transmission dynamics: localized inter-human outbreaks and repeated introductions from exter-nal sources. Comparative genomics with other African Sequence Type 152 isolates showed similar levels of diversity, suggesting a widespread continental dissemination. These findings highlight the importance of genomic surveillance to better understand and control the spread of this virulent lineage in Africa.