Is kissing generally safe? Can you catch any serious diseases that way? I realize you can catch a cold or the flu or something...but are there risks of catching something like AIDS or hepatitis?
Hi Jalopy
You are correct in that kissing is a good way to pass on a cold or flu. Meningitis is also another infection that can pass from kissing. While these infections are easily passed via kissing they are not considered to be sexually transmitted infections.
Herpes (cold sores) is an infection that passes from kissing. Hepatitis B is generally not passed by kissing, but I found one case report from 2003 of a man who they believed contracted Hepatitis B from his partner by deep kissing. Which I guess shows that even though it is very rare it may be possible. That is one reason why we recommend getting the Hepatitis B vaccine.
In regard to HIV and Hepatitis C the Canadian Aids Society believes that there has never been a documented case of HIV or Hepatitis C transmission through dry kissing. If there is no blood in the mouth, wet kissing can be classified as no risk as well.
Please feel free to comment or ask us to expand on a topic. Remember if you would like to ask me a personal question just send me a PM.
HN
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