Why you should not kiss a baby
It’s hard to resist kissing a newborn baby with their chubby cheeks and tiny toes—they’re just so adorable.
But as tempting as it is, kissing a baby can actually put their health at risk. Newborns have fragile immune systems that aren’t strong enough to fight off infections, making it important to protect them in every way possible.
Late last year, a UK charity, The Lullaby Trust, released a survey showing that 54% of new and expectant parents would allow friends and family to kiss their newborns, not realising the potential risk of serious infections.
Why Kissing Babies Can Be Risky
Babies are more vulnerable to illnesses because their immune systems are still developing. Even if you’re feeling perfectly healthy, you could still be carrying germs that might harm the baby.
A simple kiss or touch can transfer viruses or bacteria to the baby, especially if they later touch their face, mouth, or eyes.
One big concern is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which can cause serious breathing problems in infants and sometimes lead to hospitalisation. RSV can even progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which are especially tough for babies to handle.
Another danger is the herpes virus, which causes harmless cold sores in adults but can be life-threatening for newborns. If the infection spreads to the baby’s organs, it can become very serious, particularly during their first month of life.
Other Illnesses to Watch Out For
Newborns are also at risk of bacterial infections like Group B Streptococci (GBS) and E. coli. These are harmless for adults but can cause severe conditions in babies, such as sepsis, meningitis, or pneumonia. Even mild illnesses in adults can be life-threatening for infants because they lack the immune cells needed to fight them.
When Is It Safe to Kiss a Baby?
Experts suggest holding off on kisses until a baby is at least six months old. By that time, their immune system is stronger and better equipped to handle infections. Even then, it’s wise to be cautious and avoid close contact if you’re feeling under the weather.
Safe Ways to Show Love
If you’re visiting a newborn, there are plenty of ways to show affection while keeping the baby safe:
Wash your hands before touching the baby.
If you must kiss, go for a safer spot like their foot or the back of their head.
Cover any cold sores or visible infections.
If you’re feeling unwell, consider delaying your visit or wearing a mask to avoid spreading germs.
Parents shouldn’t feel bad about setting these boundaries. True friends and family will understand that the baby’s safety comes first.
When to See a Doctor
If a baby starts showing signs of illness, like trouble breathing, wheezing, or a persistent cough, it’s important to get medical help right away. These could be symptoms of a serious infection that needs prompt attention.
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