Health officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the state of Louisiana reported a case of welders anthrax in an 18-year-old male metalworker, marking the ninth such instance of the rare and potentially fatal condition since it was first described in 2022. The case, detailed in a January 1 case study, occurred in September 2024 in Louisiana.

The previously healthy teenager, with no underlying health conditions or risk factors such as smoking, vaping, or heavy alcohol use, developed a cough and was admitted to an intensive care unit a week later with severe pneumonia and respiratory failure, requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation. Blood tests revealed the presence of a bacterium in the Bacillus cereus group, which includes the species that causes classic anthrax.

Doctors connected the diagnosis to the patient's occupation as a welder's apprentice. For six months prior to the onset of his symptoms, he had been working in the shipbuilding and repair industry, performing shielded metal arc welding.

Welders anthrax is a rare form of anthrax-like illness associated with exposure to Bacillus cereus bacteria during welding. While classic anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis, this newer form is linked to other bacteria within the Bacillus cereus group. The exact mechanism of transmission and why it affects welders remains under investigation.

The CDC and state health officials are continuing to investigate the case and are working to understand the potential sources of Bacillus cereus contamination in welding environments. Experts emphasize the importance of proper ventilation and personal protective equipment, such as respirators, for welders to minimize their risk of exposure. Further research is needed to determine the prevalence of Bacillus cereus in welding materials and environments, and to develop specific guidelines for prevention.