Molecular characterisation of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli isolates from hospital and ambulatory patients in Germany

Our findings give an overview of the current distribution of ESBL-producing E. coli isolates from humans in Germany. E. coli O25b:H4-ST131 was confirmed to be the most common clone, which is known for its successful dissemination worldwide. Although heterogeneity among the isolates was found, several successful clones previously described in animals (ST410, ST10) also occurred in our isolate collection. Further detailed investigations of ESBL-producing isolates from different habitats are needed to evaluate possible transfer ways.