08/02/2022
Safer S*x, Social Gatherings, and Monkeypox
Updated July 29, 2022
While CDC works to contain the current monkeypox outbreak and learn more about the virus, this information can help you make informed choices when you are in situations or places where monkeypox could be spread.
How can a person lower their risk during s*x?
Talk to your partner about any recent illness and be aware of new or unexplained rashes on your body or your partner’s body, including the ge****ls and a**s. If you or your partner have recently been sick, currently feel sick, or have a new or an unexplained rash, do not have s*x and see a healthcare provider.
If you or a partner has monkeypox, the best way to protect yourself and others is to avoid s*x of any kind (oral, a**l, vaginal) and do not kiss or touch each other’s bodies while you are sick, especially any rash. Do not share things like towels, fe**sh gear, s*x toys, and toothbrushes.
If you or your partner have (or think you might have) monkeypox and you decide to have s*x, consider the following to reduce the chance of spreading the virus:
Have virtual s*x with no in-person contact.
Ma******te together at a distance of at least 6 feet, without touching each other and without touching any rash.
Consider having s*x with your clothes on or covering areas where rash is present, reducing as much skin-to-skin contact as possible. If the rash is confined to the ge****ls or a**s, condoms may help; however, condoms alone are likely not enough to prevent monkeypox.
Avoid kissing.
Remember to wash your hands, fe**sh gear, s*x toys and any fabrics (bedding, towels, clothing) after having s*x. Learn more about infection control.
Having multiple or anonymous s*x partners may increase your chances of exposure to monkeypox. Limiting your number of s*x partners may reduce the possibility of exposure.
Avoid touching the rash. Touching the rash can spread it to other parts of the body and may delay healing.