A final kiss can be a deeply emotional goodbye, but could it also pose a health ri.sk?
Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a Moldovan physician with a TikTok following of over 300,000, recently went viral after cautioning against kissing deceased loved ones.
In his video, he explained that dangerous bacteria may still be present after death, especially if the person passed from an infectious illness. Though rare, transmission through physical contact is possible.
His warning stirred strong reactions online. Some supported the message for its focus on health, while others felt it disrespected a meaningful tradition.
Balancing Grief with Precaution
Around the world, physical contact with the deceased—like kissing the forehead or holding their hand—is a long-practiced ritual of mourning. It offers a sense of closure and connection during loss.
However, during health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, public health authorities have urged people to refrain from these actions, not out of fear, but to limit the potential spread of disease.
When an outbreak is ongoing, even low-risk activities are handled with extra care.
What Does Medical Guidance Say?
In most typical situations, health experts consider the risk of infection from a deceased individual to be quite low, especially when death results from a non-infectious cause. Yet, there are important exceptions:
- Tuberculosis
- Hepatitis B and C
- Certain viral hemorrhagic fevers
- Severe bacterial infections
In these cases, professionals advise extreme caution, even post-mortem.
If there’s uncertainty, it’s best to speak with a doctor or licensed funeral professional. They can offer guidance based on the person’s cause of death and specific health conditions.
Alternative Ways to Say Goodbye—Safely and Meaningfully
If you’re worried about safety—or if public health guidelines limit physical contact—there are heartfelt alternatives to a farewell kiss:
- Place a flower on or near your loved one’s hands or chest
- Light a candle and spend a quiet moment in remembrance
- Write a letter and place it with them
- Create a home tribute with photographs, keepsakes, and favorite songs
These gestures can be deeply personal and healing, without any health risks.
Closing Thoughts: Love, Respect, and Thoughtful Choices
At its heart, this conversation is about more than biology—it’s about how we honor the ones we’ve lost.
Whether or not you choose to touch your loved one during your final goodbye, what matters most is the love and meaning behind your action.
Making informed, compassionate choices helps balance safety with respect in moments of grief.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It does not replace medical or professional funeral advice. Always consult a healthcare provider or licensed mortuary professional if you have questions about safe farewell practices.
