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Worldwide sex toy sales have surged in recent months, as the huge number of people stuck in coronavirus self-isolation discover the benefits of a little alone time.

According to T3, sex toy brand Womanizer found that its sales figures for the period between January 1 and March 6 were 50 per cent higher than predicted.

Sales in Italy, where the entire country is in lockdown, are 60 per cent higher than predicted.

Johanna Rief, head of sexual empowerment at Womanizer, said: “Of course, we didn’t anticipate a surge in sales of Womanizer sex toys due to coronavirus.

“We do know… that time is an essential factor when it comes to sexuality and self-pleasure.

“With the prospect of long-periods at home either alone or with your partner, people are exploring new ways to make the best of the time available.”

The Womanizer blog advises: “While it might be nice to explore all that the Netflix algorithm has to offer, it’s also a good idea to do some exploring on a more personal level.

“Why not draw a bath, light some candles and settle in with a nice waterproof toy.

It added: “The good news is that even if you’re isolated by yourself, you can always stay connected with both yourself and the outside world.

“Take the time in quarantine to really explore yourself, but also take advantage of the many ways we have to stay in touch – even if that’s just sending nudes to your new Bumble match.”

While a little self-pleasure never hurt anyone, there has been misinformation circulating online that masturbation could boost the immune system and prevent coronavirus.

Gail Saltz, an associate professor in psychiatry at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornell School of Medicine, told Health.com: “To my knowledge, no study says specifically that masturbation boosts the immune system in a way that prevents or helps fight off infection.”