Aspirus Encourages Everyone to Think Twice Before Kissing a Newborn

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don't kiss newborn

WAUSAU, WI (OnFocus) – It can be difficult to resist the temptation to kiss a cute and cuddly newborn. Newborns need affection to develop, but doing so could also put the health of that newborn at risk.

Infants are vulnerable to infections and are at a higher risk for serious or in some cases fatal diseases. Illnesses such as the common cold or the flu may be more difficult for an infant to fight off than for an adult.

Although an infant receives antibodies from the mother by the placenta prior to birth, a newborn’s immune system is still less developed to fight off infection.

“Babies are born with a weaker immune system, making it harder for them to fight off the same illness that we may get every year. Because of this, it’s important to limit a baby’s exposure to germs. If possible, babies under the age of 2 months should avoid sick individuals, public places, and crowds, especially during cold and flu season,” says Courtney Klade, Registered Neonatal Nurse at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

The most common ways germs can spread to infants is through airborne pathogens such as sneezing, breathing, or coughing, through direct contact with saliva or runny noses and through indirect contact by touching a contaminated object.

Parents are the number one advocate and first line of defense for their newborn’s health. It’s important to remind individuals of the best etiquette to consider before requesting to visit or hold a newborn.

Here are a few simple but necessary precautions to be taken by parents and visitors to protect newborns from infectious diseases.

  • Stick to the vaccination schedule strictly and do not skip or forget any of the vaccinations.
  • Avoid kissing or touching the babies’ mouth and hands.
  • Always wash your hands when holding a baby.
  • People who have any respiratory disorder or contagious diseases should maintain a safe distance from the baby.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper shirt sleeve, not your hands.
  • Disinfect frequently touched services such as doorknobs, countertops, and mobile devices.

“If someone asks to visit or would like to hold your baby, but you are worried about their risk of infection, don’t be afraid to ask then to visit another time or ask them to look instead,” says Courtney. “It may seem like a strange request, but the health of your baby is more important.”

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News Desk
Author: News Desk

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