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Does Having Sex Put You At Risk Of Monkeypox?

By Saksham Bhatia +2 more

This article has been reviewed by Dr Nikita Toshi

The new disease making the headlines across the world is monkeypox. Though we know by now that it is not as transmissible as COVID-19 and despite its major similarities to smallpox, it is not as deadly as that disease, we still need to be cautious because monkeypox reportedly has a mortality rate of 3-6%. 


As with all diseases, the battle against monkeypox starts by enlightening the people about how it spreads. In this context, many of us have come across news reports linking sexual intercourse to the transmission of monkeypox. Is there any truth to it? Let us find out.

How does monkeypox spread?

First things first, monkeypox spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact and even indirect contact with an infected person or animal. 

If you come into direct contact with the bodily fluids, blood or pus from the sores of a person who has contracted monkeypox, you are likely to get infected as well.

Similarly, unprotected contact with the belongings of an infected person (utensils, clothes, bedsheets, towels etc.) can also expose you to the Monkeypox virus.

Does monkeypox spread only from one man to another?

Research is ongoing and it is too early to get definitive answers. The fact remains that monkeypox spreads from the exchange of bodily fluids. So, the possibility of monkeypox spreading during sex between a man and a woman cannot be discounted. 

What should be done?

For now, we know that because skin-to-skin contact increases the chances of catching monkeypox, sexual intercourse with an infected person is also responsible for the transmission of the disease.

  • That is why it is essential to use protection such as condoms and dental dams while engaging in sexual activities.  
  • Do not have sex with your partner if they have been diagnosed with monkeypox.  
  • WHO has also cautioned against rapidly changing sexual partners because that increases your exposure to the disease.

Other measures

  • Continue wearing masks.
  • Sanitise your hands before you touch your face or eat anything.
  • Wash your clothes and bags.
  • If you are caring for a person diagnosed with monkeypox, please take every precaution possible and wear a PPE kit.

Key takeaways

  • Monkeypox has arrived in India.
  • However, it can potentially affect anyone who engages in sex with an infected person.
  • Safe sex is imperative.
  • Proper safety measures can reduce the spread of this infection.

Also Read: Does Masturbating Lower Testosterone? Unveiling the Scientific Truth

Conclusion

More information will reach us when doctors and experts find more details about this disease. Let us remember that prejudice, scorn and ridicule must not be heaped upon people who contract monkeypox. To successfully eradicate any disease, an amiable collaboration between all segments of society is mandatory. 

Also read: Bleeding During Sex With No Pain: A Comprehensive Guide to Underlying Causes

References

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health-specials/monkeypox-spread-sex-sti-8050365/

https://www.livemint.com/science/health/can-monkeypox-spread-via-sex-experts-share-insight-on-how-the-virus-spreads-11658827817364.html

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

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