“When Your Sister Really Wants to Kiss Your Baby” #protection

Source: @Emily Mahoney

It should be completely normal—and even expected—that kissing newborns is generally not allowed, with the important exception of the baby’s parents. Newborns have highly immature immune systems and are especially vulnerable to infections that can be mild in adults but dangerous or even life-threatening for them. Viruses such as herpes simplex or RSV can be transmitted through close contact and pose serious health risks in these early weeks of life.

Allowing only the parents—who are typically in close, consistent contact with the baby and more aware of their own health status—to kiss their child strikes a balance between bonding and safety. Setting boundaries for others helps protect the baby during this fragile time, and normalizing this expectation encourages a culture that puts infant health first. It’s not about being overly cautious—it’s about recognizing that a newborn’s wellbeing should always come before social norms.

#babies #parents #mothers