Saying goodbye to a loved one often includes a final kiss — a gesture filled with emotion, tenderness, and love. Yet, medical professionals remind us that while the sentiment is pure, safety must come first. Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a physician from Moldova, recently shared a viral warning about the potential health risks of kissing someone who has passed away from an infectious disease, emphasizing that love can still be expressed safely.
Although uncommon, certain illnesses — such as hepatitis B or C, tuberculosis, and other infections — may remain active in the body shortly after death. Bodily fluids and tissues can still contain these pathogens, particularly if the cause of death involved a contagious condition. In such cases, direct contact like kissing or touching the deceased may carry a small but real risk of transmission.
Health experts recommend that grieving families consult with medical professionals or funeral directors before engaging in close physical contact. There are many safe, meaningful ways to say goodbye — such as placing flowers, writing a heartfelt letter, or holding a candlelight vigil. These gestures offer emotional closure while keeping loved ones protected.
Ultimately, love is not defined by a single act, but by how we honor and remember those who’ve passed. Choosing safe and respectful ways to say farewell allows families to grieve with peace of mind. A final kiss may be powerful, but lasting love lives on in memory, not in touch.