Babies are adorable and almost everyone is drawn towards them. Tiny feet, cute smile, chubby cheeks, it is hard not to hold them in your arms or give a little peck on the cheek. Kissing is just a way to show affection and there seems no harm in it. But if you are parents of a newborn, we would strongly advise against it. Telling everyone not to kiss your baby might appear crazy, but trust us there is a very good reason to do so. Not only outsiders, even you or your partner for that matter must not do it for the safety of your little one.
So why you should not let anyone kiss you?
Kids are prone to colds, coughs, flu, chicken pox, etc, because their immune system is still forming. Even though you might think that a simple cough is not a solid reason not to bring your child in kindergarten, you are wrong.
If your kid is ill, even a little bit with a simple cold, do not send them over for play dates or in kindergarten. The germs are easily spread among children and even adults can get sick together with their kids.
If you ever think that moms are paranoid for quickly rushing to the hospital with their baby wrapped in a blanked after they get even a simple cold, then wait until you read about Claire Henderson’s story.
Claire Henderson is a mom from the UK. When her beautiful baby girl Brooke got kissed on the mouth, she spent 5 days in hospital with herpes on the cheeks, lips and chin. Although cold sores can be fatal for newborns under 3 months, Brooke was lucky to recover. Unfortunately, a year before, Queensland baby Eloise Lampton d.i.e.d of it days after the birth.
So, do not let people kiss your baby on the lips under any circumstances! Even if the person looks healthy. And If someone has cold sore, let them know to keep the distance.
But, the question is, who in their right mind go to visit an innocent, healthy, fragile newborn knowing that they are sick? People need to know that the first 6 weeks the baby has no immunity for the germs that we carry daily. So, an ordinary cold for you is a d.e.a.d.l.y disease for the poor being.
In some countries, it is customary to wait for the baby to turn 6 weeks before you visit them. Even though this is considered as an old wives’ tales, this is the scientific reason behind it.
What should you do
First few months are very delicate for babies and parents need to be extra careful around them. Anyone who is sick should stay away from them. Even if someone wants to touch them or hold them in their arms, they should first wash their hands properly. Cleaning hands with sanitisers is also an effective way. Also in the initial months, avoid taking your kids to crowded places and do not allow too many guests in your house.
References: lovethispic.com, timesofindia.indiatimes.com
