References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19) is not classified as an STI. It’s a respiratory virus that spreads mainly through airborne droplets and close contact. However, the close face-to-face contact during sex — and activities like kissing — can transmit coronavirus as effectively as any close contact. So while sex itself doesn’t transmit it through sexual fluids, sexual encounters are a high-risk setting for transmission.
Here’s what to know.
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- Respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, talking, breathing
- Close face-to-face contact
- Aerosols in poorly ventilated indoor spaces
- Contact with contaminated surfaces (less commonly)
- Kissing and saliva transfer
What the Evidence Shows About Sex
| Mode | Transmission Risk |
|---|---|
| Kissing during sex | High — same as any close contact |
| Face-to-face contact during sex | High |
| Semen and vaginal fluids | Not a main transmission route |
| Faeces and rimming | Possibly relevant; coronavirus has been found in stool |
The virus has been detected in semen and vaginal fluids in some studies, but sexual fluids are not considered a major transmission route compared to respiratory contact.
Safer Sex During COVID Outbreaks
- Avoid sex with people who are ill or have been exposed
- Wait until symptoms clear and isolation period ends
- Be cautious with new partners during community surges
- Ventilate rooms
- Wash hands before and after
If You Have COVID Symptoms
- Avoid sex with people outside your household
- Follow current UK self-isolation guidance
- Test with lateral flow or PCR if symptomatic
- Let recent contacts know
COVID and Sexual Health Services
Sexual health services remained available throughout the pandemic, often with adaptations like remote consultations and postal test kits. STI testing and treatment weren’t put on hold. If you need sexual health care, clinics are still there for you.
Long COVID and Sexual Health
Some people with long COVID experience fatigue, reduced libido or other symptoms that affect their sex life. If this applies to you, your GP can offer advice and referrals.
Read more: Flu vs STI | Flu and HIV | What is HIV?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is COVID an STI?
No. It’s a respiratory virus, not a sexually transmitted infection, even though sex involves close contact that can transmit it.
Can condoms prevent COVID?
Not really — COVID spreads mainly through the air, not through sexual fluids. Condoms still matter for STI prevention.
Should I avoid sex during COVID outbreaks?
Avoid sex when ill or in isolation. During community surges, use judgement about new partners.
Related reading
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Get an STI From Being Fingered?
- Can You Catch an STI From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Clear HPV Once You Have It?
- Can You Die From Hepatitis B?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
