PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health is warning residents that having sex with anyone other than yourself is dangerous and could lead to a COVID-19 infection and possibly death. If you want to have sex with somebody other than yourself, the department recommends having sex with somebody who lives within your household.
“You are your safest sex partner,” said a statement by Department of Health Commissioner Rachel Levy. “Your next safest partner is someone you live with. Having close contact, including sex, with someone you live with who has a low risk of having COVID-19 infection helps prevent spreading COVID-19.”
If you do happen to desire sex with somebody other than yourself or an individual who doesn’t live in your home, Levy says you should follow these simple rules:
- Have as few partners as possible, and pick partners you trust.
- Have your partner get a COVID-19 test first.
- Make sure your partner doesn’t already have COVID-19.
Levy recommends you find a consistent sex partner and to wear a face-covering while having sex to avoid kissing. While engaging in sex, do not touch your nose, eyes or mouth.
Before and after sex, Levy says you and your partner should sanitize, washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Levy did not say it, but it might actually be a good plan to use the alcohol-based sanitizer after, and not before. I’m not a doctor, and I’m practicing without a medical degree, but it could be a good idea to go the soap and water route prior.
Here are some of the state’s guidelines for sex during COVID-19:
- Limit the number of partners.
- Try to identify a consistent sex partner.
- Wear a face covering, avoid kissing, and do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands with soap and water often, and especially before and after sex. If soap and water are not available use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- If you usually meet your sex partners online, consider taking a break from in-person dates. Video dates, sexting, subscription-based fan platforms, or chat rooms may be options for you.
- Avoid kissing. Kissing can easily pass the virus.
- Wear a face covering or mask.
During COVID-19, wearing a face covering that covers your nose and mouth is a good way to add a layer of protection during sex with those outside your household.
Levy also suggests you wear a condom to also prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
Yes, folks, this is a real thing.