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Kissing and health: an overlooked relationship

Kissing is considered a common way of expressing love, but have you ever thought that it can also cause some diseases? In fact, during kissing, not only emotions are exchanged, but saliva is also exchanged. Bacteria and viruses in this saliva can be transmitted from one person to another. Not every kiss is harmful, but some situations may increase the risk of spreading infection.

Possible problems during kissing

According to the health information website *Hawaii Family Dental*, saliva is exchanged during a deep or French kiss. Saliva contains water, enzymes, electrolytes, and proteins, as well as a variety of bacteria and viruses. A study published in the journal *Microbiome* suggests that around 80 million bacteria can be transferred from one person to another during a kiss. Most of these bacteria are harmless, but they can cause infections in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Which diseases are more likely to spread?

According to experts, the common cold virus first spreads through kissing. If your partner has a cold, the risk of infection increases. In addition, mononucleosis, also known as the “kissing disease”, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and can also be spread through saliva. Its symptoms include fatigue, fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

risk of other diseases

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) can also be spread through kissing. This virus spreads through saliva, even if there are no sores around the mouth. In addition, if a person has the flu, there is a risk of transmission of influenza viruses through respiratory droplets during kissing. The bacteria associated with gum disease can also be spread through saliva, increasing the risk of oral health problems.

When does the risk of infection increase?

Some conditions increase the risk of infection. If your immune system is weak, your partner already has an infection, you have cuts or wounds in your mouth, or you do not take care of oral hygiene, the chances of infection increase. However, kissing also has some benefits.

How to stay safe?

To reduce the risk of infection, practice good oral hygiene. Brush regularly, use dental floss, and have periodic dental checkups. Avoid kissing until you or your partner has completely recovered from an illness. In case of cold and cough, close contact should also be avoided.