Kissing a newborn baby may seem like an innocent act of affection, but it can pose serious health risks to the infant. It can put them at risk of respiratory viruses and bacterial infections that can cause serious adverse effects like sepsis and meningitis.
In a survey released by The Lullaby Trust, a charity in the United Kingdom, 54% of new and expectant parents said they would let their friends and family kiss their newborn baby. At least 63% of parents also said they would feel uncomfortable asking other people not to touch their baby for fear of offending someone or being labeled as overprotective.
However, NHS surgeon Dr. Karan Raj has warned people of the dangers of kissing a baby in a recently made TikTok video.
Why Is It Dangerous To Kiss a Newborn?
Newborns have an immature immune system that is still developing. This makes them particularly vulnerable to infections that may be harmless to adults or older children, Dr. Raj noted. This means viruses that cause mild symptoms in adults can be life-threatening for young ones.
For example, herpes can cause cold sores in adults. While most babies will recover after getting antiviral treatment, serious cases can affect their organs and increase their chances of dying.
In addition to viruses, kissing a newborn can also lead to allergic reactions from allergens in skincare products, food, or chapstick.
Furthermore, babies who develop a fever under six weeks may require invasive procedures such as a spinal tap to check for infections. Avoiding unnecessary contact can also prevent such situations.
How To Safely Show Affection
There are many ways to show love and affection to a newborn without putting their health at risk. Parents and visitors can kiss the baby on their feet instead. This area is less likely to spread harmful germs. Another way to show affection is through gentle cuddles or talking to the baby in a soothing voice.
Always wash your hands before touching a newborn, and ask others to do the same. If you feel unwell, it's best to keep your distance until you're healthy again. Additionally, do not visit in the early weeks of the child's life, especially during cold and flu season.
