Can the coronavirus be transmitted via sexual intercourse?

All close contact (within 2 meters or 6 feet or) with an infected person may expose you to the virus that causes (COVID-19) — whether you are engaged in sexual activity or not.

Researchers in China also recently discovered traces of COVID-19 in the semen of patients who had recovered from the coronavirus. This could suggest that COVID-19 could be sexually transmitted. But, this does not mean that it is a fact that the virus can be sexually contracted. The semen was traced in a very small sample size, hence, not much can be concluded at the moment.

How does the novel coronavirus actually spread?

The novel coronavirus spreads via respiratory droplets released when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. The suspended droplets can easily enter the body of a healthy person via air through the mouth or the nose. These droplets could also land on the hands of a healthy person who could accidentally rub their face, giving these droplets a chance to enter their bodies.

The virus can also possibly spread through kissing an infected person. Besides kissing, any other sexual activity that may involve the saliva  of an infected person coming in contact with a healthy person’s body can also cause infection. Once this happens, the healthy person may  get infected with the coronavirus.

Is there any evidence to support this claim?

Currently, there is no evidence to support the claim that semen or vaginal fluids can carry and spread the coronavirus. However, traces of the virus were found in the semen of people recovering from the virus. More research is required to draw a definite conclusion.

It is advised to keep a safe distance from people who you think could be carrying the virus. Avoid having sex with partner who does not stay with you or have travelled during this pandemic. Especially in the case where you do not know if your partner is a carrier or not.

Has anyone gotten COVID -19 via sexual intercourse?

No, there are currently no recorded cases of Covid -19 being transmitted via sexual intercourse.

There isn’t much research that suggests that the coronavirus spreads via sexual intercourse.. As studies on the virus progress, there can be a definite conclusion of whether or not the virus can spread via sexual intercourse.

Doctors have advised being safe by avoiding close contact with people. Maintaining a safe distance from people is what can prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Symptoms of COVID-19 infection

The main symptoms include:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath or trouble in breathing
• Body aches
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

If not treated on time, then these symptoms can manifest into much bigger problems. The main symptoms are pneumonia, septic shock, respiratory failure, and or death. Another condition that Covid -19  can create in your system is cytokine release syndrome or cytokine storm. In this, the virus triggers inflammatory proteins to flood your bloodstream. These inflammatory proteins are called cytokines. An overflow of them can easily damage organs.

The more severe symptoms of COVID -19 are :

• Shortness or trouble in breathing
• Being confused
• Chest pain
• Unable to completely wake up
• Bluish lips or face
• Stroke

When should you contact a doctor?

When you notice the nascent symptoms of the coronavirus, it is best to isolate yourself from the rest of your family members. Common cold has often been confused with the coronavirus, so self-quarantine is the best practice. If the symptoms progress, then it is best to see a doctor.

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How to prevent getting the COVID-19 infection?

The best way to prevent getting the COVID-19 infection is to maintain distance from people when outside. Here are some rules one can follow to stay safe:

• Stay at home at all costs.
• Reduce the number of interactions you have with people.
• Always wear a mask when leaving your home.
• Wear a mask while talking to outsiders.
• Use hand sanitizers whenever you leave your home.
• Avoid interacting with people not wearing a mask.
• Maintain social distancing.

What is the treatment for the COVID-19?

There is currently no specific treatment for COVID-19. If you have mild symptoms,  you may be treated for body aches, fever, etc. Since there is no cure for the virus as of now, treatment for the symptoms that the person shows is what is given .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do face masks protect you from COVID-19?

Yes, face masks do protect you from COVID-19 to some extent. But doctors recommend maintaining social distance, most importantly while in public. This adds another layer of protection.

2. Can sexual intercourse be performed safely with only penetration?

Since there is no way of knowing if the person you are having sex with is a carrier or not, there is no way of performing sexual intercourse without there being a risk of contracting the coronavirus. Doctors’ are advising not to have sex with partners who have traveled or do not stay with you.

3. Can sexual intercourse be safely performed using a condom?

Since there is no proof that the coronavirus is transmitted via sexual intercourse, there is no right answer. If the person you are having sex with has the virus, they can easily transmit it to you by just being near you.