A Moldovan doctor has stirred widespread debate after posting an unexpected warning about a longstanding tradition: kissing a loved one goodbye after they pass. Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, who has gained a large following on TikTok, shared a brief video urging families to avoid kissing the deceased during final farewells. His message was stark and direct, emphasizing that the body begins releasing harmful bacteria roughly nine hours after death—bacteria that can pose potential health risks, including the loss of smell.

The clip quickly went viral, prompting emotional reactions from viewers around the world. Many admitted they had never considered the possibility of bacterial exposure during meaningful farewell rituals, while others insisted that the emotional connection outweighs any medical concern. One user passionately wrote, “I kissed my father and would do it a million times over. I can lose taste and smell—he is my father!”

Ivanovik’s message highlights the complex intersection between tradition, grief, and science. In many cultures, touching or kissing a loved one after death represents respect, closure, or spiritual connection. His warning has encouraged conversations about how to balance long-standing customs with health awareness, especially in moments when logic often gives way to emotion.

Although his advice may not change deeply rooted beliefs, it has undeniably sparked reflection. The discussion underscores the importance of approaching these sensitive topics with compassion, recognizing that rituals around loss are profoundly personal—even as medical experts offer guidance meant to protect the living during moments of profound grief.