Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Sources- The Lullaby Trust
PMID 32773663
mylamcreynolds on TT
Kissing a newborn or young infant poses serious health risks because their immune systems are still developing and lack the antibodies needed to fight off common pathogens. Microorganisms that cause mild or even unnoticeable symptoms in adults can trigger severe, life-threatening illnesses in a baby. For instance, the herpes simplex virus can easily spread through a simple kiss on the lips or face, leading to neonatal herpes, which can cause severe brain damage or fatal organ failure. Beyond cold sores, kissing can transmit respiratory syncytial virus, severe colds, flu, and harmful bacterial infections to a vulnerable infant. Because young babies cannot communicate their discomfort and can deteriorate rapidly, avoiding kissing them on the face or hands is a vital safety measure. Encouraging visitors to wash their hands and show affection through gentle head pats or cuddling instead helps protect an infant's fragile health.
#babies #mothers #pregnancy
Sources- The Lullaby Trust
PMID 32773663
mylamcreynolds on TT
Kissing a newborn or young infant poses serious health risks because their immune systems are still developing and lack the antibodies needed to fight off common pathogens. Microorganisms that cause mild or even unnoticeable symptoms in adults can trigger severe, life-threatening illnesses in a baby. For instance, the herpes simplex virus can easily spread through a simple kiss on the lips or face, leading to neonatal herpes, which can cause severe brain damage or fatal organ failure. Beyond cold sores, kissing can transmit respiratory syncytial virus, severe colds, flu, and harmful bacterial infections to a vulnerable infant. Because young babies cannot communicate their discomfort and can deteriorate rapidly, avoiding kissing them on the face or hands is a vital safety measure. Encouraging visitors to wash their hands and show affection through gentle head pats or cuddling instead helps protect an infant's fragile health.
#babies #mothers #pregnancy
