#Wear a mask while having sex, suggest Canada’s top doctor

Skip kissing and wear a mask while having sex to protect yourself from contracting the coronavirus, Canada’s top public health official advised on Wednesday.

Dr. Theresa Tam said in a statement that there is very low chance of catching COVID-19 from semen or vaginal fluid, but sexual activity with a new partner does increase the risk of catching the virus, especially when kissing.

“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,” Tam said.

When engaging in sexual activity, Tam advised to skip kissing, avoid face-to-face closeness, wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose, and monitor yourself and your partner for symptoms ahead of any sexual activity.

“The lowest risk sexual activity during COVID-19 involves yourself alone,” she added.

Tam also reminded Canadians to use a condom and know your own STI own STI status and the status of your partner, and limit alcohol use to make safe decisions.

Sexual health is an important part of our overall health.

“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,” Tam added.

As of Wednesday afternoon, there have been 129,425 cases of COVID-19 in Canada, including 9,132 deaths. An average of over 490 new cases have been reported daily during the most recent seven days.