Chinese researchers found coronavirus in sperm. Viruses were identified in the semen of 16 percent. men from the research group – both those undergoing the acute phase of infection and those already in the recovery stage. However, it is still unclear whether the coronavirus could be sexually transmitted as a result.
- Chinese scientists released a publication this week confirming the detection of the coronavirus in sperm
- In the 38-person research group, the coronavirus was in the semen of 16 percent. patients
- The pathogen was diagnosed in patients suffering from COVID-19, but also in those who have recovered
- It is not known if the coronavirus can be sexually transmitted as a result
The coronvirus may be in the seed
Chinese study pointing to the presence of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in semen appeared on May 7 in the scientific journal “Journal of the American Medicine Association”. Samples from 38 patients from Shangqiu City Hospital who were treated for COVID-19 in January and February were tested. The results showed that 16 percent. of respondents found the presence of coronavirus in semen.
The researchers note that the virus was detected in the sperm of six patients who had an active infection, but also in two men who had recovered. The case study does not indicate that the appearance of the coronavirus in semen is highly dependent on age, duration of COVID-19 and hospitalization, days from recovery, or history of genitourinary diseases.
So far, researchers have also detected SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, blood, urine and stool. The mere presence of the coronavirus in semen is not yet evidence that the pathogen can be transmitted through sexual contact.
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Can COVID-19 Be Passed Sexually?
Current coronavirus research are still insufficient to conclude whether it can be transmitted through sexual contact. It is also unclear how the virus enters the testicles. According to scientists, the penetration of the pathogen into the reproductive system could occur as a result of weakening the barrier between it and the bloodstream. This may be facilitated by the inflammation associated with COVID-19 disease.
The mere presence of the coronavirus in semen is not an isolated case in the group of viral diseases that are not typically sexually transmitted. Research published in the NEJM showed that sexual contact is one possible route of Ebola and Zika virus infection. Therefore, according to new reports, even if the coronavirus does not reproduce in the male reproductive system, it is likely that it stays there for some time. This phenomenon is possible because the cells of the immune system have limited access to the testicles.
You may find that the coronavirus in semen does not pose a risk of infection. The authors of the publication emphasize that more research is needed to verify the suspicion of sexual transmission of COVID-19.
Have a question about the coronavirus? Send them to the following address: [email protected]. You will find a daily updated list of answers HERE: Coronavirus – frequently asked questions and answers.
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