Phylogeography of Swiss strains of Bacillus anthraces lineage B. Br. CNEVA. AnthraSuisse-B

Single nucleotide polymorphism of Swiss strains of B. anthracis based on full genome sequencing and comparison with sequence data from strains from other European countries reveals a strong grouping to their geographic origins. Six nodes were identified along the branch leading to the reference strain CNEVA-9066. The phylogenetic topologies are consistent with an East-West expansion of the lineage in Europe with local settlement and in situ differentiation. Data indicate an initial introduction of B. anthracis lineage B.Br.CNEVA into Europe from eastern Eurasia by dispersal by cattle westward and establishment along the Alps.