Child health experts are urging parents to discourage relatives, friends, neighbours, and visitors from kissing their newborn babies. The paediatricians warn that such kisses can expose infants to infections their immature immune systems may not be able to withstand. They also advise against allowing unrestricted access to newborns.
In an exclusive interview with HealthWise, Dr. Oluwabunmi Mokuolu, a consultant paediatrician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital in Kwara State, explained the risks. “You don’t know what people are harbouring,” she said. “Many may have common colds or other viral infections, and by kissing the baby you can transfer these viruses directly. This increases the baby’s chances of developing a cold or other viral infection, which can significantly weaken their already fragile immunity.”
Dr. Mokuolu emphasized that while a cough may seem minor to adults, it can be serious for a newborn. “A bacterial cough, for example, can be transferred to the infant, and the child does not have enough antibodies to fight the infection as an adult would.” She warned that delayed treatment can lead to severe disease and even death, especially if parents bring the baby to the hospital too late.
The paediatrician recommends basic hygiene for anyone visiting a newborn. “Wash your hands, avoid cuddling or kissing the baby, and practice proper cough etiquette—cough into your elbow. If you have a cold, stay away.” By following these precautions, visitors can help protect the health of newborns.
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