Transmission dynamics of drug-resistant tuberculosis in Ningbo, China: an epidemiological and genomic analysis

• DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1327477
• Publication Date: 2024-02-07T05:32:03Z
• Authors: Yang Che; Xiangchen Li; Tong Chen; Yewei Lu; Guoxin Sang; Junli Gao; Junshun Gao; Zhengwei Liu; Tianfeng He; Yi Chen
• Keywords: Molecular Epidemiology

Background Tuberculosis (TB), particularly drug-resistant TB (DR-TB), remains a significant public health concern in Ningbo, China. Understanding its molecular epidemiology and spatial distribution is paramount for effective control. Methods From December 24, 2020, to March 12, 2023, we collected clinical Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) strains with whole-genome sequencing performed on 130 MTB strains. We analyzed DR-related gene mutations, conducted phylogenetic phylodynamic analyses, identified recent transmission clusters, assessed distribution. Results Among DR-TB cases, 41% were MDR-TB, 36% pre-XDR-TB, 19% RR-TB, 3% HR-TB. The tree showed that 90% of Lineage 2 (Beijing genotype), while remaining 10% 4 (Euro-American genotype). analysis hotspots Ningbo’s northern region, traditional urban centers. 31 (24%) the cases grouped into 7 clusters large outbreak cluster containing 15 pre-XDR-TB patients. Epidemiological analyses suggested higher risk among young adult patients who frequently visited Internet cafes, game rooms, factories. Conclusion Our study provides comprehensive insights genetics Ningbo. presence genomic highlights events, indicating need targeted interventions. These findings are vital informing control strategies Ningbo similar settings.