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Mar 19, 2026

WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER KISS A DECEASED PERSON, ACCORDING TO A DOCTOR

In a recent viral video, Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a physician from Moldova with more than one million TikTok followers, sparked widespread discussion after speaking about potential health concerns linked to kissing deceased loved ones goodbye.

According to Dr. Ivanovik, the human body begins undergoing natural decomposition processes several hours after death.

As tissues start to break down, bacteria and microorganisms may become more active, especially depending on environmental conditions and the length of time since death.

The doctor explained that close physical contact with the deceased could potentially expose individuals to certain bacteria, particularly in situations where the body has not yet been preserved.

One concern he mentioned was the possible impact on the senses, including smell, although reactions and risks can vary greatly depending on the circumstances.

His video, titled “Never Kiss the Deceased,” quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing both support and criticism.

While some viewers appreciated the medical perspective and admitted they had never considered possible health risks associated with traditional mourning practices, others responded emotionally, arguing that final moments with loved ones are deeply personal and guided by grief, culture, and family traditions.

Many comments reflected the emotional conflict people feel during loss.

Some users shared heartfelt experiences of saying goodbye to parents, spouses, or relatives, explaining that emotional connection outweighed any fear of potential health concerns.

Others felt the video served as an important reminder to balance emotional traditions with personal safety.

The discussion also highlighted how mourning customs differ across cultures and families.

In many traditions around the world, kissing the forehead or hand of a deceased loved one is seen as a final act of love, respect, and closure.

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