Can a final kiss be risky? A farewell kiss can feel sacred—an instinctive act of love and grief. But under certain circumstances, that deeply personal gesture may come with hidden dangers. Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a Moldovan physician with a strong TikTok following, recently sparked viral debate after warning against kissing the deceased, especially those who died from infectious illnesses. His message was clear: in some cases, love must be expressed at a distance.
Though it’s rare, transmission of certain bacteria or viruses after death is medically possible. Infections such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B or C, and even hemorrhagic fevers can linger in bodily fluids or tissues for a time. That’s why public health officials urge caution—especially during outbreaks or when the cause of death involves contagious disease. Customs that involve touching, kissing, or holding the deceased may need to be rethought, not out of fear, but out of care for the living.
When there’s any uncertainty, experts agree: consult a healthcare provider or funeral director. They’re trained to help families grieve safely without compromising ritual. Touchless alternatives—like placing a hand-written note, laying a flower, or lighting a candle—can still offer deep emotional closure. These symbolic gestures carry love, without carrying risk.
Ultimately, it’s not the final kiss that defines your goodbye—it’s the lifelong love behind it. Honoring someone doesn’t require contact to be heartfelt. Whether through memory, tribute, or quiet reflection, what matters most is how you carry their presence with you. Real love never needs proof—it endures in how we live, remember, and move forward.