Genomic analysis of the meningococcal ST-4821 complex-Western clade, potential sexual transmission and predicted antibiotic susceptibility and vaccine coverage.

The previously identified cc4821 group 2 was resolved into three separate lineages. Clustering of western isolates was surprising given the overall diversity of cc4821. Possible association of this cluster with the anogenital niche is worthy of monitoring given concerns surrounding antibiotic resistance and potential subcapsular vaccine escape.