Sex and the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Because we have all been advised to be at home during this pandemic, there are a few things that you need to know regarding the coronavirus and sexual activity. We all want to keep each other safe but we all want to continue to stay connected and intimate too. We can still enjoy sex without spreading or getting infected with the virus.
1. Understand how the virus can be spread.
If you are within 6ft of someone that has COVID-19, you can be infected if they cough or sneeze.
You can also spread the Coronavirus by direct contact with saliva or mucus so kissing will spread the virus if one person has it.
Any droplets in the air, according to the CDC, can contain the virus, this could mean respiratory or saliva.
Wash those hands and keep them away from your face, your eyes, and your mouth! Disinfect surfaces and objects that you regularly touch as well like faucets, doorknobs, light switches, the refrigerator handle, the toilet flush handle, the top of the soap dispenser, ect.
If you have items delivered to your house in cardboard boxes, it has been advised that the Covid-19 virus can live on cardboard for 24hrs. It can live on hard or shiny surfaces like glass, countertops, metal, plastic for up to 72 hours. It can live on paper, fabric, for up to 24 hours.
It’s also a great idea if you do head out for groceries or to the pharmacy to change your clothes as soon as you re-enter you house.
The virus has also been found in feces but not yet in vaginal fluid or semen.
2. Be careful who you have sex with. Your spouse is obviously your best bet, other than masturbation. You obviously can’t infect yourself, just make sure your hands and sex toys are clean.
Keep your circle small, avoid close contact with those outside your household.
If you are an online dater, this is a great time to meet people online but keep it online for now. Video calls, sexting, or chat rooms are your best choices for the time being to keep you safe.
Remember that people will not exhibit ANY symptoms within the first 5-10 days of contracting the virus and some may not show any symptoms at all.
**Condoms can reduce the spread of COVID-19, especially during oral and anal sex.
**Make sure you wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Let’s all stay safe and protect ourselves and our families too.
If you think you may have the virus and are exhibiting symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath), call your doctor FIRST. You can also visit the CDC for the latest and most updated information.