Genomic analysis of extensively drug resistant (XDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae high-risk clone ST14 co-harboring blaNDM and blaOXA-48 recovered from Saudi Arabia

This study analyzes the genomic spread and prevalence of high-risk Klebsiella pneumoniae (CPKP) in the Western region of Saudi Arabia, a region frequented by millions of Muslims annually. Genome sequencing was performed on 29 CPKP isolates, which showed resistance to most antibiotics, including carbapenems. The results showed that 42.3% of the isolates co-harbored blaOXA-48, blaCTX-M-15, and blaNDM genes. The high-risk clone ST14 was identified, with 50% co-harboring these genes. Two isolates, ST2096/KL64 and ST383, were found to be hypervirulent K. pneumoniae (hvKp) clones, carrying virulence factors such as rmpA2 and aerobactin. The study concludes that improving surveillance and strict infection control measures in this region is crucial to effectively monitor and reduce the spread of high-risk clones of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, including CPKP.