Genetic diversity of Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis strains isolated from humans, pigs, and human living environment

► This study highlighted the geographical differences in the genetic diversity of Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis (MAH) strains. ► We noted stark differences between human MAH isolates from Japan compared to those from France and Finland. ► We revealed the singularity of MAH isolates derived from Japanese humans and bathrooms and suggested a genetic similarity of them. ► Our data also suggested a relatively high genetic relatedness of Japanese pig isolates with French and Finnish isolates. ► The differences in individual VNTR loci variability was noted between the “host” groups (human/bathroom vs pig).