The researchers found that, in hamsters, infection with Covid-19 led to an acute decrease in sperm count.
It is a consequence of the virus that might worry many people. According to a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Hong Kong, infection in Covid-19 infect the testicles of hamsters. Lesions that would also affect male fertility.
This study, relayed by The Independent, looked at the immunological and hormonal changes in hamster testicles following a Covid-19 infection. Through these observations, the researchers found that the virus caused an acute decrease in sperm count and testosterone for up to a week following infection. They then noticed a decrease in the size and weight of the hamsters’ testicles. These findings were published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases. This is not the first time studies have identified links between the virus and testicular damage. Post-mortem research on men infected with the virus had revealed signs of inflammation in one or both testicles.
Vaccination as a solution?
Inflammation, degeneration and death of testicular tissue persisted seven to 120 days following infection. Note that the Omicron and Delta variants had the same consequences. To reach these conclusions, an influenza strain was used as a control. “It is important to be aware of low libido and subfertility“, warned Professor Yuen, who led this study. However, there would be a solution to prevent these complications. Indeed, vaccination would limit the risk of testicular lesions. Hamsters immunized with two injections of vaccine n showed no signs of tissue damage to the testicles.In comparison, they noted that a flu infection did not lead to any testicular infection or damage.
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