The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is now calling on the porn industry to consider more than just testing as a means of stopping the spread of HIV between actors.

 

The organization based its conclusion on a case in which it says a gay porn actor likely infected other men, both on and off set, even after testing negative.

 

The incident took place in 2014, when the unnamed 25-year-old gay model tested negative by nucleic acid amplification test within the preceding 14 days. He went on to have unprotected sex with 12 other performers and five non-porn partners, unaware that he was, in fact, HIV positive.

 

According to the report, one performer and a non-work-related partner later tested positive for HIV.

 

The report also looked at whether any of the men were taking PrEP to decrease chances of contracting HIV. None were on the program (something the CDC thinks more men should be considering).

 

“The high prevalence of STIs within this network of sexual partners, including performers, emphasizes the importance of consistent condom use," the CDC concluded. "In addition to complying with regulatory requirements under OSHA standards, the adult film industry should consider the implementation of combination HIV prevention strategies, including biomedical (HIV testing, treatment, and PrEP) and behavioral (consistent and correct use of condoms) interventions.”

 

The CDC added that "HIV tests, including nucleic acid amplification, do not detect HIV very early after infection."

 

Obviously condoms are the best option for keeping performers safe. However, as more studios opt to shoot bareback scenes, it is likely we'll hear more stories about the spread of STIs on set.