From public transport to shops, face masks are now compulsory in a range of locations across the UK.
Now, one university is urging its students to wear face masks while having sex, to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The University of Georgia has issued a pamphlet of ‘Covid-19 Considerations’, and advises its students to wear face masks during sex.
It said: “Consider wearing a face mask during sex. Heavy breathing and panting can further spread the virus, and wearing a mask can reduce the risk.”
The pamphlet suggests that students should ‘be creative with sexual positions’ to reduce face-to-face contact.
In addition, the pamphlet also suggests that masturbation is one of the safest options amid the pandemic.
It added: “You are your safest sex partner. Practice solo sex, or limit the number of sexual partners you have.”
Unsurprisingly, the advice has been heavily mocked on social media.
One user joked: “This is probably the funniest thing I’ve read yet.”
Another added: “Every time I think I've heard it all, someone says ‘hold my beer….’”
However, this isn’t the first time that face masks during sex have been suggested.
In June, scientists from Harvard University warned that having sex could spread coronavirus, and advised that couples take preventative steps in the bedroom.
This includes avoiding kissing, showering before and after sex, and even wearing masks while having sex.
In their study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the researchers, led by Dr Jack Turban, wrote: “For some patients, complete abstinence from in-person sexual activity is not an achievable goal.
“In these situations, having sex with persons with whom they are self-quarantining is the safest approach.
“Those unable to take this approach may benefit from risk reduction counseling, which has proven effective in other realms of sexual health.
“Patients should also be provided with information about how to reduce the risk for other sexually transmitted infections as well as the importance of continued use of contraceptives during this time to prevent unwanted pregnancy.”
