How Many Viruses Can Live In Semen? More Than You Might Think

"When it comes to microbes in sexual organs, the vagina and its fluids seem to garner most of the attention. Heck, there is even a consortium dedicated specifically to studying which critters live and thrive in its confines."

"Really, who can blame scientists? The vagina's microbiome — or all the bacteria and viruses that inhabit it — can influence all sorts of health aspects, including the risk of miscarriage and HIV infection."

"But now, the gentlemen are getting some attention on this front. And it's not bacteria we're talking about."

"Semen can be a hotbed for viruses, scientists report in the November issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases. At least 27 viruses can live in the fluid, including Ebola, Marburg, chikungunya and Lassa fever."

"Doctors at the University of Oxford compiled a full list after analyzing more than 3,800 studies."