What we know about how COVID-19 spreads
The virus spreads mainly through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person when they cough, sneeze or breathe. It can also be spread through saliva (spit).
The virus has been found in feces and semen. It is not clear if the virus can be transmitted through sexual fluids. But, sex involves getting closer than two metres to a partner so this could allow for the spread of COVID-19 from one partner to another.
A person infected with COVID-19 can spread the virus even it they do not have symptoms.
The virus can live on surfaces. This means that the virus can spread when a person touches an object or surface that has the virus on it and then they touch their eyes, nose or mouth.
Tips for safer sex
- You are your safest sex partner. Masturbation is a safe option. Remember to wash your hands and sex toys for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Do not use hand sanitizer on your toys or genitals.
- Your next safest partner is someone you live with. Having one regular sexual partner helps reduce the spread of infections, including COVID-19.
- You should limit close contact - including sex - with anyone outside of your household. If you do have sex with others, have as few partners as possible and pick partners you trust. Talk about COVID-19 risk like you would other safer sex topics. Ask: do they have symptoms or have they had symptoms in the last 14 days? Have they been diagnosed with COVID-19? Have they had contact with someone who has COVID-19? If your partner says yes to the above questions, avoid kissing or having sex with them.
- Wear a mask and wash your hands and body before and after having sex.
- Choose sexual positions that limit face-to-face contact.
- Consider taking a break from in-person dates. Texts, phone calls, video dates or chat rooms may be options for you at this time.
- If you feel unwell or have tested positive for COVID-19, follow recommendations for isolation and quarantine, which includes avoiding sex with your partner(s).
COVID-19 is not the only infection to think about
Continue to use condoms and dental dams to prevent transmission of sexually-transmitted infections and to reduce the risk of pregnancy.
Contact our Sexual Health Team
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For sexual health services at our St. Thomas site email sexualhealthstthomas@swpublichealth.ca
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For sexual health services at our Woodstock site email sexualhealthwoodstock@swpublichealth.ca
Please do not share personal health information via email.
To speak with a Public Health Nurse on the Sexual Health Team call 1-800-922-0096.