The development of molecular genotyping methods has revolutionized the possibility for classification of microorganisms at the sub-species level. This investigation of species diversity is crucial for deciding the molecular relatedness of isolates for epidemiological studies. In Molecular Epidemiology of Microorganisms: Methods and Protocols, readers will find readily reproducible methods for determining the molecular epidemiology of microorganisms, all of which provide effective discrimination of unrelated strains. This volume covers a wide range of techniques which can be easily applied to the investigation of transmissible diseases, directing researchers towards the most effective methods based on the particular information to be obtained. Describing both traditional and novel techniques, expert researchers present a series of methods-based chapters with applications to some of the most important microbes. Composed in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology(t) series format, each chapter contains a brief introduction, step-by-step methods, a list of necessary materials, and a Notes section which shares tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and practical, Molecular Epidemiology of Microorganisms: Methods and Protocols provides state-of-the-art techniques which will prove to be critical in unraveling the routes of spread of pathogens for humans, animals, and plants.