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LOS ANGELES — An investigation into four work-related cases of HIV infection in the adult film industry found a serious occupational risk of sexually transmitted diseases, according to a county report released Tuesday.
Basic practices of the industry — with actors engaging in unprotected sex acts with multiple partners over short periods of time — increase the potential for HIV and STD transmission, according to the report, authored by the county Department of Health Services.
Facing the risk of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases the industry relies on screening.
But after an outbreak of four cases last year, the new report says screening alone is not enough.
The report found the infection was transmitted to three co-workers by a male performer who repeatedly tested negative.
To prevent the spread of disease, actors should use condoms, dental dams and gloves. Used blades, wires and broken glass should be immediately thrown away, officials said.
Ron Miller produces and directs adult films, sometimes with actress wife Brook Hunter.
“If you want us to wear masks, goggles and gloves, what fantasy can we make?” Hunter said.
The investigation focused on a 40-year-old adult film actor who had tested HIV-negative prior to transmitting the disease to three co-workers in early 2004.
Two Southland production companies were cited and fined for the outbreak by the state Department of Industrial Relations. The department determined the adult film industry was subject to state health regulations and compliance with the California/Occupational Safety and Health Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.
“Important and remediable gaps for workplace prevention of HIV and other STDs were identified,” said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, county public health director. “Screening alone is not an adequate means of preventing workplace disease transmission.”
The study will appear in Friday’s issue of Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report, and can be read at www.cdc.gov/mmwr.