Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a Moldovan physician with a large TikTok following, recently went viral after cautioning against kissing deceased loved ones. He explained that harmful bacteria can sometimes persist in a body after death—particularly if the person died from an infectious disease—and in rare cases, these pathogens could be transmitted through close contact like kissing.
“I understand it’s a deeply emotional act, but people need to be aware of the potential health risks,” Ivanovik said, emphasizing the importance of safety even during mourning.
The warning has sparked mixed reactions. Some viewers appreciated the advice as a practical precaution, especially given the context of recent pandemics, while others felt it conflicted with cultural and familial grieving traditions where touching or kissing the deceased holds deep significance.
Public health experts note that similar guidance has been issued during outbreaks such as COVID-19, when authorities recommended limiting contact with bodies to reduce disease transmission. Such measures are generally precautionary but highlight potential post-mortem risks.
Despite some controversy, Ivanovik’s video continues to circulate widely, prompting discussion about how to balance traditional mourning practices with modern health guidance, and many followers praised him for encouraging both awareness and respectful grieving.
