Singletons seeking intimacy during lockdown have been urged to find a “sex buddy”, under new Dutch government guidance.
Officials in the country’s health agency said pairing up with one individual could help fulfil sexual desires while avoiding the coronavirus infection risk involved in hook-ups with different people.
But if the seksbuddy - sex buddy - experiences Covid-19 symptoms, the pair should avoid sex, the advice says.
The government document comes after critics complained singles were left in the dark during the pandemic.
The Netherlands began what it calls an “intelligent lockdown” on March 23, allowing up to three visitors in homes and small gatherings.
In guidance published on May 14, the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) said "it makes sense that as a single [person] you also want to have physical contact" during the crisis.
"Discuss how best to do this together," the RIVM guidance says. "For example, meet with the same person to have physical or sexual contact (for example, a cuddle buddy or 'sex buddy'), provided you are free of illness.
"Make good arrangements with this person about how many other people you both see. The more people you see, the greater the chance of (spreading) the coronavirus.
"Don't have sex with your partner if they have been isolated because of (suspected) coronavirus infection.”
It adds: "Sex with yourself or with others at a distance is possible,” suggesting "erotic stories" and "masturbating together" as possible alternatives..
The country began the first step of its five-stage lockdown exit plan on Monday, seeing hairdressers, libraries, nail bars, beauticians, message salons and occupational therapists reopen for business from May 11.
