Don’t invite COVID to date night

Dating during COVID isn’t all roses. More of a delicate dance than a tango, diving into a relationship during a pandemic requires a cautious approach. Dating apps, texting and video chats are now the norm. Ready to take it to the next level? Coming up with a sensible solution isn’t as difficult as you might think. Before your in-person meet up, make a plan. Follow the Four and you just might find the love of your life.

How to date safely during a pandemic

• Connect virtually instead of physically. There’s no need to rush it. Instead of attending a party, try dating apps or other virtual meetups. If you make a connection, use the virus situation to your advantage and get to know each other virtually. Sexy time can wait.
• Be selective. If ever there was a time to be picky about who you date, it’s now. Don’t settle for someone out of loneliness or boredom. You deserve the best.
• Ask questions and be prepared to share. Consider making cupid cue cards with questions that might help determine whether you’re a good match before you meet.
• Be direct, not bashful. As with all relationships, communication is key. Discussing boundaries before meeting in person can help ease tension and better align your expectations. If you’re thinking you’ll stay six feet apart and wear masks and they’re hoping for a first kiss, you’ll both be disappointed.
• Settle on a safe meeting place with adequate ventilation. A public park, a beautiful beach, a waterfall hike or dinner at a local restaurant with outdoor dining are all good options.
• Use safe transportation to get to and from your date. Walking, biking, driving yourself or taking public transportation provides you more control of the situation.
• Follow the Four: Stay six feet apart. Wear a mask. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. Avoid large gatherings.
• If you’re both ready to take it to the next level, consider your bubbles. The more people you and they come into contact with increases your level of risk.
• Take extra precautions and discuss your expectations beforehand. If you’re taking it to a new level, stick with a single partner for your sake and theirs. Quarantine for two weeks prior to your date and get COVID tested.
• Don’t cave to pressure. If you’re not comfortable with in-person dating or physical contact, that’s your prerogative. You know what they say, absence (and abstinence) makes the heart grow fonder.
• If you’re already in a committed relationship, reignite that spark with a staycation or romantic hotel package. Settle in with some take-out and take some time to focus on your relationship. Whether you’re popping “the question” or just the champagne cork, make it memorable. We could all use a little extra love right now.

For more information and tips, visit:

Lane Transit District
Lane County Public Health
Oregon Health Authority
Centers for Disease Control