The doctor told about viruses and infections transmitted through kissing

Kissing is pleasant and important for maintaining emotional intimacy, but it is important to remember that through saliva you can become infected with viruses that are transmitted by airborne droplets and contact. Vera Seryozhina, an expert doctor at the LabQuest medical company, told Izvestia about this on March 14.

Among salivary infections, herpes infections are especially common: cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus of the first, second and sixth types, as well as infectious mononucleosis caused by the Epstein–Barr virus. They can be easily transmitted by kissing, especially if there are micro-lesions on the oral mucosa. According to the expert, a herpes infection can remain in the body for years, periodically worsening, especially against the background of stress or decreased immunity.

Respiratory infections such as acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, coronavirus infection and respiratory syncytial virus are also transmitted through saliva. They can be infected not only by kissing, but also through contact with infected objects.

"A less well—known but no less dangerous way of transmitting infections is through household contact. For example, a badly washed cup or cutlery in a public place can cause infection. This is especially true for the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which is transmitted through saliva and can provoke the development of gastritis and peptic ulcer," the doctor said.

Seryozhina reminded that through a kiss you can get syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia. You can also get infected by using other people's personal hygiene products — toothbrushes, razors, and other items. The expert advised to avoid close contact with infected people, wash your hands thoroughly, and try not to touch the handrails on public transport.

"It is also important to remember about the hygiene of dishes: they need to be thoroughly washed, and if possible, treated with boiling water or using dishwashers. This is especially true for those who live with infected helicobacter or herpes. In addition, do not neglect the means of barrier contraception. They not only help to avoid unwanted pregnancies, but also reduce the risk of contracting many infections that are transmitted through mucous membranes," she concluded.

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