Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a Moldovan physician with over 1M TikTok followers, recently sparked a debate on the risks of kissing deceased loved ones. In his video, he explains that a body begins to decompose nine hours after death, releasing harmful bacteria. He highlights the loss of smell as a major risk of exposure. His TikTok post, “Never kiss the deceased!” serves as a reminder of these health dangers.

Reactions online have been mixed. Some shared personal experiences, while others thanked Dr. Ivanovik for raising awareness. The emotional difficulty of following his advice was also noted, with some saying they would kiss their loved ones again despite the risks.

The video highlights the complex interplay of health, tradition, and emotion in mourning rituals. It underscores the importance of balancing cultural customs with health knowledge, while also showcasing how social media can raise awareness of important health issues.

Dr. Ivanovik’s viral post serves as a powerful reminder of the need to consider health risks, even in deeply emotional moments.