PASS Update on Rare Chlamydia Strain in Florida
Yesterday, PASS was alerted to a new, fairly rare strain of chlamydia that may not be detectable by many commonly used STI tests in the United States. CLEAR, a PASS-certified lab network that operates in South Florida, has detected several instances of the strain that appear to have gone undetected elsewhere. We have not independently confirmed CLEAR’s findings, but have no reason to believe they are not credible.
The unique mutation of this chlamydia strain makes it difficult to detect by some chlamydia test assays. The Aptima Combo 2 (AC2) test assay utilized by CLEAR appears to be able to detect this strain, while others have not.
We do not yet know if there is significant incidence of the strain in the performer pool. We do know that most identified cases are performers in Florida.
We are extremely concerned about reports of performers who have tested positive at CLEAR subsequently retested at a different facility in order to be cleared for work. Such “results shopping” is unacceptable and dangerous. If you believe that you have falsely tested positive, please retest only with guidance from a clinician. Those who purposely seek out a false negative result are putting themselves, their scene partners, and our entire industry at risk.
Regardless of the strain, chlamydia is easily treatable. While we learn more about the potential risk of this strain, there are simple steps that you can take to protect yourself and your community.
If you are able to be tested at a facility that uses an Aptima Combo 2 Assay by Hologic, do so. This is the test used by CLEAR in Miami.*
If you have tested negative for chlamydia but have possible symptoms, avoid all sexual contact. Contact your doctor or local clinic for further testing and possible treatment.
Alert your testing center if you have STI or UTI like symptoms, even if you have tested negative for chlamydia.
We will provide more information as we become aware.
If you have questions, please contact info@passcertified.org
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*Edit: A previous version of this announcement indicated that TBD Health in Vegas used a Aptima Combo 2 assay. This information was outdated - they currently use a Roche cobas CT/NG. We are currently evaluating the efficacy of the assay in detecting the identified strain.
