A medical professional from Moldova has gone viral on social media after sharing an unexpected — and cautionary — message about a deeply emotional tradition: kissing a loved one who has passed away.
Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a physician with nearly 300,000 followers on TikTok, recently posted a video aimed at raising public health awareness around potential medical risks that can occur during close contact with a deceased body.
Medical Expert Explains the Health Risks
In the video, Dr. Ivanovik delivers a clear warning to viewers:
“You should not kiss a deceased person.”
He explains that several hours after death — often within the first nine hours — the body naturally begins the process of decomposition. During this time, bacteria can multiply and be released, particularly around the mouth and nasal area.
According to the doctor, close contact such as kissing could expose a person to harmful microorganisms, potentially affecting the sense of smell and increasing the risk of infection.
Viral Video Sparks Emotional Reactions
The video quickly gained traction online, with many viewers admitting they had never considered the health and safety implications of such a common farewell ritual.
Others, however, shared deeply personal responses.
One commenter wrote emotionally:
“I kissed my father goodbye and I would do it again without hesitation. Losing taste or smell doesn’t matter — he was my dad.”
These reactions highlight the powerful emotional weight tied to grief and remembrance.
Balancing Cultural Traditions and Health Safety
Dr. Ivanovik’s message has sparked a broader conversation about how cultural practices, emotional closure, and medical safety guidelines sometimes intersect — and conflict.
In many cultures, physical contact during final goodbyes is seen as an important act of love, respect, and healing. For grieving families, the emotional comfort of a personal farewell often outweighs potential health concerns.
Medical professionals stress that the goal of such warnings is not to shame or criticize grieving individuals, but rather to educate the public so people can make informed decisions during vulnerable moments.
Raising Awareness Without Dismissing Grief
Health experts emphasize that awareness and sensitivity must go hand in hand. Dr. Ivanovik’s video serves as a reminder that even during emotionally charged situations, infection prevention and personal safety remain important considerations.
His message encourages families to explore alternative ways of honoring loved ones — such as holding hands with protective barriers, observing from a respectful distance, or focusing on symbolic gestures — while still preserving dignity and compassion.
An Ongoing Public Health Conversation
The viral response to Dr. Ivanovik’s video shows how social media continues to shape discussions around medical advice, grief support, and health education.
By opening this dialogue, the doctor has contributed to a broader understanding of how science and tradition can coexist — encouraging people to remain mindful of health risks while respecting the deeply personal nature of loss.
In moments of grief, emotions naturally lead the way. But as this discussion highlights, being informed empowers families to protect both their hearts and their health.