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 in Louisiana in September 2024, marking the ninth such case since the condition was first described in 2022. The individual, a healthy welder's apprentice with no underlying health conditions or risk factors, developed severe pneumonia and respiratory failure requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation just a week after experiencing a cough.

Blood tests revealed the presence of a bacterium in the Bacillus cereus group, which includes the species that causes classic anthrax. Doctors connected this finding to his occupation as a shielded metal arc welder in the shipbuilding and repair industry for the six months preceding his illness, according to a case study published January 1.

Welders anthrax is a rare and often fatal condition associated with inhaling Bacillus bacteria during welding. While classic anthrax is typically linked to handling infected animals or contaminated animal products, welders anthrax appears to be a distinct form. The exact source of the Bacillus bacteria in these cases remains under investigation.

The CDC and state health officials are working to understand the risk factors and transmission pathways associated with welders anthrax. Experts emphasize the importance of proper ventilation and respiratory protection for welders to minimize exposure to potentially harmful airborne particles. They also recommend that medical professionals consider welders anthrax in patients presenting with pneumonia and a history of welding.

The patient in this case was treated with antibiotics and supportive care. Further details on his current condition were not available. The CDC continues to monitor for additional cases of welders anthrax and is collaborating with industry partners to develop and implement preventative measures.