{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/Pages/health/Child Health/do-you-kiss-babies-uk-physician-warns-of-lifelong-virus-risks-linked-to-common-habit"},"headline":"Do You Kiss Babies? UK Physician Warns of Lifelong Virus Risks Linked to Common Habit","description":"A UK-based doctor cautions that kissing babies on the face or lips can expose them to lifelong viral infections, as infants have underdeveloped immune systems and are more vulnerable to transmission.","image":["https://res.cloudinary.com/donttjaap/image/upload/v1771933000/primetime_news/ddosfcvy19xkwclg4ahl.avif"],"datePublished":"2026-02-24T11:36:41.043Z","dateModified":"2026-02-24T11:36:41.043Z","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Riddhima Vashisht","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Time Cyber Media","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/logo.png"}},"articleSection":"health","articleBody":"

A UK physician has issued a warning about a common yet risky habit — kissing babies on the face or lips. According to medical experts, infants have immature immune systems, making them highly susceptible to infections that adults may carry without symptoms.

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Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1)

One of the primary concerns is the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which can be transmitted through saliva. While it often causes mild cold sores in adults, in newborns it can lead to severe complications, including brain inflammation and organ damage. Once contracted, the virus remains in the body for life.

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Other Viral Risks

Respiratory viruses such as RSV, flu and even certain strains of COVID-19 can also spread through close contact. In infants, these infections may result in breathing difficulties and hospitalisation.

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Why Babies Are More Vulnerable

Newborns, especially those under three months old, do not yet have fully developed immune defences. Even well-meaning relatives can unknowingly transmit viruses.

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Precautionary Advice

Doctors recommend avoiding kissing newborns on the face or hands, washing hands before holding them, and staying away if experiencing symptoms of illness.

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While affection is natural, experts stress that small precautions can help protect babies from potentially lifelong infections.