Health officials have obtained a rare court order telling a man who has infected at least eight people with HIV to stop spreading the virus.

The Washington state court’s order asks the man, who has only been identified as AO, to follow a health department’s cease-and-desist order and show up for counselling and treatment appointments.

The order was issued by the Superior Court in Kings County, near Seattle, on September 4. It was reported by The Seattle Times.

If the man fails to comply with the order, he could be jailed for contempt of court.

“We’re not trying to criminalize sexual behaviour here,” said Dr Matthew Golden, director of the department’s HIV/STD control program.

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