With South Africans having to practice social distancing and self-isolation, things can get a little boring. Couples and lonely hearts alike will be looking to spice things up as the coronavirus pandemic alters the world as we know it – but just how intimate are we allowed to be in times like these?
Well, the research is already well underway. Several authorities have an idea on what is – and isn’t – best practice during the outbreak of coronavirus. It’s generally good news for long-term couples, but those into a more “casual” scene of dating could be left sorely disappointed. Here in South Africa, one MEC suggested that we should stop kissing each other full-stop: But was she right? Well, technically…
Can you have sex during the coronavirus outbreak?
What’s generally allowed:
- Penetrative sex is generally permitted, unless one of the participants has a condition that makes them vulnerable to the disease*, or if they’re over 70 – it’s advised that these groups sit this one out indefinitely.
- If you live with your romantic partner, the advice is generally very relaxed. Because you’ll be sharing the same space, intimate contact between the two of you doesn’t face much restriction.
- Masturbation gets the green-light, too. As long as you’re washing your hands and sex toys.
- Phone sex, sexting and using webcams is all good – just ensure you’re disinfecting keyboard and phone surfaces.
Sexual activity you must limit or avoid:
- Casual hook-ups need to be limited: Citizens have been told to have sex with “as few people as possible”, and to avoid contact — including sex — with anyone outside your household or “close circle”.
- That also includes polyamorous couples, or those whose sexual activity includes more than two people.
- If you or your partner have coronavirus symptoms, sex needs to be avoided at all costs – for at least seven days.
- Kissing strangers (generally classed as people outside of your close circle) is flagged as a dangerous practice. Coronavirus can be passed through saliva.
- And, it’s perhaps worth noting, analingus could also spread the disease.
(All information supplied by the New York City Health Department, Professor Paul Hunter and George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health.)
* – People with lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer or a weakened immune system (for example, having unsuppressed HIV and a low CD4 count) are considered as ‘vulnerable’
Source: The South African Read More
