Nondetectable DOES NOT EQUAL nontransmittable

We expressed concern over performer safety and possible exposure to HIV while on set due to our outdated testing protocols, and then we were made aware of an apparent agenda to allow HIV Undetectable performers into our testing pool. The union expressed immediate concern due to the unnecessary risk others want to expose performers to. The test we currently use allows for HIV Undetectable performers to slide into our work force unnoticed because the test we use will not pick up their viral load.

As a defense against disclosure and testing, performers were quoting the CDC to squash concerns about risk of HIV Undetectable performers. The Union took action and reached out to the CDC for a response.

People (actors) are quoting CDC as saying undetectable HIV means you cannot transmit HIV to others, then these people (performers) are misquoting CDC. CDC states that there is “effectively no risk of transmission” based on available evidence.

Achieving and maintaining viral suppression are required to achieve this level of risk and we know from extensive clinical experience and our surveillance that only about two thirds of Americans with HIV infection are able to do this.

Furthermore, many details have yet to be worked out, for instance: how long it takes to achieve an undetectable viral load, how to document that a person is maintaining a viral load that is undetectable, and what to do if the person misses some doses of their HIV medicine has an STD or experiences a “viral blip”.

If you do not agree that it is okay for talent to hide behind a Negative HIV test knowing they are Positive because they are taking medication which can hide their positive viral  load then

 JOIN NOW!  

Updating our testing protocols would make all viral loads detectable,  but our testing centers are refusing to do so!

              This is OUR lives at risk and this is not okay. 

           By joining and paying your dues you're helping to start this fight, where you do not have to be in the forefront. (Unless you  choose to be).

          Now with Prop 60 not passing, you do not even have the right to request a condom, you  don't        wear one or you don't work.  Stayed tuned for detailed information on what we are going to do about this situation.