Canada's Chief Public Health Officer has issued a public statement advising people to skip kissing and considering wearing a mask during steamy sessions to prevent spreading the coronavirus.
Dr Theresa Tam took the opportunity to explain how the risk of spreading the deadly virus increases when people engage in sexual encounters with someone/others (no shame round here) that are outside of your household or close contacts bubble.
The CPHO did reassure people however that there's a 'very low likelihood' of contracting the coronavirus through semen or vaginal fluids. It's worth noting however that you should still make sure you're engaging in safe sex.
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In the full statement, Dr Tam said: "Sexual health is an important part of our overall health. However, sex can be complicated in the time of Covid-19, especially for those without an intimate partner in their household or whose sexual partner is at higher risk for Covid-19.
"Like other activities during Covid-19 that involve physical closeness, there are some things you can do to minimize the risk of getting infected and spreading the virus."
The statement went on: "The lowest risk sexual activity during Covid-19 involves yourself alone. If you choose to engage in an in-person sexual encounter with someone outside of your household or close contacts bubble, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk.
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"The most important step is to establish a trusting relationship with your sexual partner."
A number of measures are listed to reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19. They include:
- Monitoring yourself for symptoms of Covid-19 and not having sex if you or your partner is experiencing symptoms;
- Limiting your use of alcohol and other substances so you and your partner(s) are able to make safe decisions;
- Skipping kissing and avoiding face-to-face contact or closeness;
- consider using a mask that covers the nose and mouth;
- Being aware if you or your partner may be at higher risk for more severe outcomes of Covid-19. This includes:
- people of any age with underlying medical conditions;
- people with compromised immune systems; and
- people living with obesity.
- As usual, engaging in safer sex practices, including using condoms, knowing your own STI status and the status of your partner
Finally, Dr Tam said: "Current evidence indicates there is a very low likelihood of contracting the novel coronavirus through semen or vaginal fluids. However, even if the people involved do not have symptoms, sexual activity with new partners does increase your risk of getting or passing Covid-19 through close contact, like kissing.
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"Remember as with all social interactions, try to keep your number of close contacts low if possible.
"By taking these precautions and staying conscious of the risks we assume, Canadians can find ways to enjoy physical intimacy while safeguarding the progress we have all made containing Covid-19."
Featured Image Credit: Canadian Press/ShutterstockTopics: Sex and Relationships, Sex, Community, Weird, Canada
