Based on current evidence, the novel coronavirus is not present in sexual fluids of anyone carrying the infection. This means the virus doesn’t pass on to another person through sexual fluids involved in intercourse.

Coronavirus is passed on through contact with droplets from the nose and mouth, including the saliva of an infected person, which can happen through close contact with others. This means there is a significant risk of passing on COVID-19 through kissing and physical touching if one person has the virus. There is also evidence that the virus is present in poop (faeces), so licking around the anal areas (rimming) may also be a way the virus is passed on.

However, outside this scenario, some sexual activities should be avoided because of the way coronavirus spreads:

• Kissing – The virus is found in saliva, so there is a clear risk of transmission.

• Rimming (analingus) – Do not stimulate a person’s anus with your tongue.

• Sex with someone outside your household – People should avoid having sex with someone outside their household until the pandemic has ended.

• Sex with someone who is sick – Remember, the virus can be spread through close contact with other people and respiratory droplets. Sick people should be isolated from all contact until they recover.

• Sex with someone who is at risk for coronavirus – This would include people with diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, cancer, or a weakened immune system. Unless this person is living with you and you are both staying at home, sex should be avoided.

Outside the mentioned scenario, if you do have sex, take these precautions:

• Use condoms – These barrier methods reduce the amount of saliva and feces you’re exposed to during sex.

• Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – Always wash your hands, sex toys, and other items. Other objects, such as touch screens on phones and tablets, may be sanitized with a 70% isopropyl alcohol product.

• Do not have sex if you’re ill, especially if you are coughing or sneezing.

• Do not have sex if you have COVID-19.

Scientists are actively learning as much as they can about the coronavirus as quickly as possible, but there are still many questions to answer.