Phylogenetic Characterization Reveals Prevalent Shigella flexneri ST100 Clone in Beijing, China, 2005 to 2018.

is a major cause of bacillary dysentery in Beijing, China. The genetic features and population structure of locally circulating clones remained unclear. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of 93 isolates from patients in Beijing from 2005 to 2018. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a predominant lineage comprised of ST100 isolates that had acquired an extensive repertoire of antimicrobial resistance determinants. A rapid local expansion of the largest clade of this lineage began in 2008 and gradually resulted in the dominance of serotype 2a. Other clades showed substantial evidence of interregional spread from other areas of China. Another lineage consisting of ST18 isolates was also identified and appeared to have persisted locally for nearly 6 decades. These findings suggest that epidemics in Beijing were caused by both local expansion and interregional transmission. Beijing is the largest transportation hub in China, with a highly mobile population. is a major cause of bacillary dysentery in Beijing. However, little is known about the genetic features and population structure of locally circulating clones. Whole-genome sequencing of 93 isolates revealed that epidemics in Beijing were predominantly caused by an ST100 clone. Interregional spread, rapid local expansion, and acquirement of antimicrobial resistance determinants have cocontributed to the epidemics of this clone. Another ST18 clone was also identified and showed long-term colonization in Beijing. Our study provides comprehensive insights into the population structure and evolutionary history of in Beijing.