Sexually active people told to ‘go virtual’

MANILA, Philippines — As a precautionary measure against mpox, the Department of Health (DOH) has advised sexually active people to practice virtual sex.

“Go virtual! Gumamit ng video call kasama ang partner na pinagkakatiwalaan,” the DOH said as it stressed the importance of practicing safe sex – such as using video call with a trusted partner – amid the detection of new mpox cases in the country.

Aside from virtual sex, the DOH further suggested that sexually active people observe “no touch” or practice “self-pleasure” in the meantime.

Before engaging in sex, DOH said, one must know their partner well and ensure they don’t have wounds or rashes.

DOH further emphasized the importance of just having one sexual partner as having multiple partners increases exposure to mpox.

“Even in monogamous relationships you can’t be too careful and know the other’s exposure,” the agency added.

DOH, however, pointed out that the disease formerly known as monkeypox is not sexually transmitted, but the virus may be spread through skin-to-skin contact.

The recently detected mpox cases in the country were found to have had anonymous sexual encounters or had multiple sexual partners.