PASS has announced that they will be updating its testing policy and guidance on Mycoplasma genitalium (“Mgen”) after further consultation with industry stakeholders and medical experts.

The nonprofit organization explained that Mgen is a relatively new infection, and that their recommendations are subject to change as they receive new data. They further stated that they will keep the community informed as they learn more about the prevalence of and risks associated with Mgen.

With that in mind, starting November 13^th, PASS will implement the following changes:

• PASS will require a negative Mgen test within the last 30 days in order to be eligible for clearance in PASS.
• PASS will no longer accept doctors’ notes of completion of treatment for clearance. Talent with positive diagnoses will be required to receive a negative test before returning to work.

PASS continues to advise against requiring Mgen testing as part of regular 14-day work clearance expressing that there is no medical reason to test for Mgen more frequently than every 30 days, except in the following instances:

• If you have had a known exposure to Mgen
• You should test for Mgen, as well as chlamydia and gonorrhea, if you are experiencing symptoms:
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Abnormal genital discharge
  • Unexplained pelvic or genital discomfort

Identifying and treating Mgen is vital for the safety of our community. PASS said that taking medication exactly as prescribed will help ensure the fastest clearance of the infection and ability to return to work and will help prevent drug resistance.

• PASS is requesting that only people who test positive for Mgen get treatment, as the risk of developing treatment-resistant strains is significant.
• If positive, ensure you are receiving the proper treatment regimen of Doxycycline 100mg twice a day for 7 days, followed by Moxifloxacin 400 mg once daily for 7 days.

If you have tested positive for Mgen, PASS also asks that you participate in their anonymous Mgen Contact Tracing Program, which identifies and notifies individuals who may have been exposed to Mgen in order to prevent further infections. Filling out this form is entirely anonymous and voluntary. Anyone with questions about the process or protocol can contact PASS at info@passcertified.org.

PASS is committed to providing those who work in our industry with the most up to date information and guidance on STI prevention and other issues of health and well-being.

Mgen testing is currently available at all PASS Certified testing partners.

For more information about PASS head to their website at passcertified.org and follow them on X @PASScertified.