When to consider avoiding sex during COVID – 19

Sexual activity should only ever be between consenting adults who have the legal capacity to make the decision.

Read more about consent

When to consider avoiding sex

  • Avoid sex and especially kissing if you or your partner has symptoms of coronavirus, for example fever, cough or shortness of breath. If you develop symptoms of coronavirus, you should self-isolate and phone your doctor.
  • Avoid sex if you or your partner has a medical condition that can lead to a serious illness because of coronavirus. Medical conditions include lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer or a weakened immune system (for example, having unsuppressed HIV and a low CD4 count). Find out  more about at-risk groups.