Researchers have demonstrated that next-generation genome sequencing can provide clinically relevant data on bacterial transmission within a timescale that can influence infection control and patient management. The team recreated an MRSA outbreak that occurred in a neonatal ward and analyzed it using genome sequencing as if in real time. Next-generation genome sequencing provides precise information in a fast turnaround time, and could make a clear distinction between MRSA isolates in a way that was not previously possible.