Yes, It’s Okay to Have Fun This Summer. Just Keep It Outside

In March, New York City issued new public-health guidance that appeared to contradict the city’s shelter-in-place orders. In an online guide, the city health department suggested “how to enjoy sex and avoid spreading Covid-19.” While all New Yorkers should stay home, the city said, the guidance offered practical advice to reduce risk if someone did break the rules. Kissing, for example, should be reserved only for a close circle of contacts.

As the outbreak drags on, social-distancing rules are evolving into a balancing act, with shades of gray based on new understanding about risk from the disease. In many parts of the country, the spread ...