The Essentials:
- Get vaccinated when possible and recommended against certain diseases.
- Consider getting a blood test to check for STIs before and after the trip.
- Always wear a condom (CE standard) during sexual intercourse.
- Seek emergency medical attention in case of assault.
For further :
STI Prevention
Travelers can contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sexual intercourse. Some STIs are life-threatening and do not have a definitive cure (HIV infection, hepatitis B), while others are curable but highly contagious or associated with risks of complications (syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes, chlamydia, papillomavirus, scabies).
People with sexual practices that expose them to a risk of STIs are advised to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B, Papillomavirus (depending on age), invasive meningococcal infections (higher risk observed in Men who have sex with Men – MSM), Hepatitis A and typhoid fever (if oral-anal intercourse).
Vaccination against Mpox is also recommended for MSM and travellers going to at-risk areas who may be sexually exposed.
Condoms are the primary means of preventing STIs, preferably CE-marked. Using dental dams also provides protection during oral-vaginal or oral-anal sex.
Focus on HIV
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is indicated when there is a risk of HIV infection. Unprotected sex with unknown partners may be an indication for offering intermittent or continuous PrEP for the duration of the trip.
When travelers have engaged in unprotected HIV-risk sexual behavior, they should be referred within hours of the encounter for possible post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). STI testing should also be considered.
In case of assault
In the event of sexual assault or rape, it is advisable to seek urgent medical attention to assess the need for post-exposure prophylaxis, particularly for HIV, and emergency contraception (if indicated), and to obtain an initial descriptive certificate.
It is also necessary to notify the medical/repatriation assistance company, and to contact the French consulate and the relevant authorities to file a complaint.
Reminder of the law
French law is applicable even if the offence is committed abroad and even if the act is not punishable in the country where it was committed.
A Frenchman who has sexual relations with a minor abroad can be prosecuted in France for these acts if he is of French nationality, or if he habitually resides in France.
Penalties vary depending on the nature of the offence and the age of the victim (sexual assault / sexual relations with a minor under 15 years of age: up to 7 to 10 years imprisonment and approximately €100,000 fine (depending on the applicable article of the Penal Code)).
Penalties can be increased in cases of child prostitution, commercial sexual exploitation, etc.
Source: Guide to Health Recommendations for Travellers from the High Council of Public Health
