A core genome MLST scheme for assessing the global epidemiology and phylogenetic diversity of Leptospira

Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic Leptospira strains, is an emerging bacterial zoonotic disease mostly affecting humans in tropical countries. Despite its public health importance, little is known about the strains that are circulating worldwide. In this work we describe a new typing tool based on genome sequence data that can discriminate all members of the Leptospira genus. We then examine the genetic diversity of Leptospira strains from different origins. This study will give us important informations for optimizing diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance.